Teachers boosted by online conference

Hundreds of teachers in Jewish education convened online for a national conference this week reflecting on how “opportunities can come from crises”.

Last year presented some of the toughest challenges many teachers have ever had to face, with the coronavirus pandemic prompting full closures followed by restrictions, partial openings, and home learning.

It was the tenth annual National Jewish Education Conference for Primary School Teachers and was held at the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) on Tuesday, with 230 delegates attending.

Teachers had a choice of Zoom sessions, depending on their interest area, with a keynote speech from Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis.

“Even though the energy and excitement of face-to-face networking couldn’t happen, teachers were able to learn new skills and see innovative technology in practice,” said organisers Esther Colman and Helena Miller.

Other speakers included Rabbi Mark Silkoff, head of Jewish Studies at Hasmonean Primary; Shana Burton, Jewish Studies lead at Broughton Jewish Primary in Manchester; and Shosh Hill, head of Jewish Studies at Kerem Jewish Primary.

Hill said: “It is so important for all JS teachers to receive relevant and up-to-date training, particularly this year as the world of education has moved on so rapidly.”

LSJS chief executive Joanne Greenaway said: “This year it was particularly important to give teachers that boost and support, given the challenges they are dealing with. I’m delighted that so many were able to come together.”