Chief Rabbi salutes next generation of Jewish teachers

Students from as far as South Africa mark completion of LSJS programme to prepare for careers in the classroom

BA and MA graduates together with Rabbi Dr Yehuda Perlman, Dr Helena Miller, Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum and Rev Dr Alan Shaw.  Pic: Lis Isles Photography.
BA and MA graduates together with Rabbi Dr Yehuda Perlman, Dr Helena Miller, Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum and Rev Dr Alan Shaw. Pic: Lis Isles Photography.

The next generation of Jewish teachers has been honoured at a London School of Jewish Studies graduation ceremony. 

The event took place at Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue, with students including two graduates travelling from South Africa, receiving certificates from the institution’s president, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis.

Mirvis said: “We learn in order to teach, and I congratulate you and everything you will achieve in your careers, as you go into schools and transform the lives of future adults at this challenging time.”

Guest speaker Sarah Sultman spoke about her son’s journey which led her to found Gesher school for children aged four to 16 with a range of mild to moderate special educational needs.

She said: “Our tradition elevates the role of a teacher to something divine; not just a conveyor of information but a shaper of destiny. Our modern world celebrates influences and entrepreneurs, but it is teachers who deserve our deepest kavod. LSJS embodies the idea that we should be lifelong learners. How we can do more to inspire others, especially our next generation, is a question we must ask ourselves.”

LSJS Graduation Day speakers, (l-r, Sarah Sultman, Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, Rabbi Joseph Dweck, Bill Benjamin, Joanne Greenaway and Dr Helena Miller). July 2025. Pic: Lis Isles Photography

Dr Helena Miller, director of degrees and teacher training programmes, senior research fellow added that was “so proud of the BA graduates and proud to have been part of their journeys.”

Graduate Alexandra Bouaziz said: “LSJS doesn’t just train teachers – it cultivates thinkers, nurtures leaders, and dares us to believe that our classroom can change the world. Teaching isn’t just about covering the curriculum – it’s about uncovering each child’s potential. LSJS has helped us find our voice as educators.”

LSJS chief executive Joanne Greenaway described watching students graduate as “the highlight of my year. Great education never stops as we keep learning and being students. You all inspire us and will be great role models as you shape the future of the next generation.”

  • For more information on teacher training or degrees at LSJS visit ww.lsjs.ac.uk.
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