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Jewish Studies at the King David High School seeks to create a generation of proud, aware, and knowledgeable young Jews. We aim to make our ancient tradition relevant, meaningful, and engaging for young people growing up in the modern world.

Our curriculum is built around fundamental questions that encourage students to reflect deeply on identity, morality, and responsibility:

• What does it mean to be human from the perspective of the Torah?

• Can you get being human wrong?

• What is a successful human being?

• What are my responsibilities as a human and as a Jew?

Through the study of Biblical narratives, classical and modern commentators, and contemporary ethical challenges, students develop critical thinking skills while strengthening their spiritual, moral, and ethical awareness. Respect, dignity, and courtesy are core values that underpin all learning in the department.

Overview of the Curriculum (KS3–KS5)

Key Stage 3

At KS3, students study key Biblical narratives using both classical and modern commentaries. Learning is framed by the department’s core philosophical questions and is designed to help all students, regardless of background, find meaning and relevance in sacred texts.

Students:

• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills

• Explore Jewish values and ethical responsibility

• Are encouraged to reflect on personal identity and belief

• May develop Hebrew reading skills where appropriate

In addition, Year 7 students study a short carousel course on Christianity and Sikhism, covering key beliefs and practices. Further interfaith learning opportunities are embedded throughout KS3.

Students in Years 7–9 also study a dedicated unit on Israel, reflecting the school’s Zionist ethos and developing an appreciation of the State of Israel, its people, history, and culture.

Key Stage 4 (GCSE)

All students study the AQA Religious Studies GCSE, covering:

• Judaism: Beliefs and Practices

• Sikhism: Beliefs and Practices

• Ethical Themes:

  • Crime and Punishment

  • Relationships and Families

  • Religion, Peace and Conflict

  • Human Rights and Social Justice

All schemes of work promote active citizenship and a strong sense of responsibility towards the school community, the wider Jewish community, and the world at large.

Further guidance can be found here:
👉 https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/religious-studies/gcse/religious-studies-8061/specification  

 
Key Stage 5 (A Level)

At KS5, students follow the AQA Religious Studies A-Level, a challenging and rewarding course which includes:

• Judaism

• Philosophy of Religion

• Ethical Theories

Students develop advanced academic skills including essay writing, evaluation, and independent thinking. The course provides excellent preparation for higher education.

Further guidance can be found here:
👉 https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/religious-studies/a-level/religious-studies-7062/specification

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Assessment and Feedback Approach

Students are assessed using a variety of methods appropriate to each key stage, including:

• Written assignments and essays

• Source-based questions

• Extended evaluative responses

• Formal examinations

Feedback is regular and constructive, enabling students to understand their progress, develop subject-specific skills, and refine their written and analytical work.

Staff List and Teacher Specialisms

Head of Department:Rabbi C. Cohen

Coordinator of Jewish Informal Education: Rabbi A. Schwarz

Head of Kodesh – Yavneh Boys: Rabbi A. Nyman

Head of Kodesh – Yavneh Girls: Mrs R. Wolf

Jewish Studies Staff Team:

• Mrs E. Hoffner

• Rabbi Y. Joseph

• Rabbi S. Klyne

• Rabbi A. Richman

• Mrs J. Roskin

• Rabbi S. Schwarz

• Rabbi S. Schwalbe

• Rabbi B. Simmonds

The department benefits from a diverse team with expertise in Biblical studies, Jewish philosophy, ethics, informal education, and examination teaching.

Examples of Classroom Learning and Student Work

Lessons are interactive and discussion-based, combining text study with reflection and debate. Students engage in:

• Analysis of primary Jewish texts

• Classical and modern commentaries

• Ethical case studies

• Independent and collaborative learning

Student work includes essays, source analysis, presentations, and reflective writing.

Resources, Revision Guides & Homework Expectations

Students are supported through:

• Structured schemes of work

• Carefully selected textbooks and source materials

• Clear homework tasks designed to consolidate learning

• Revision resources and guidance for examinations

Additional support materials are shared as students progress through KS4 and KS5.

Extra-Curricular Clubs and Enrichment Opportunities

Alongside formal lessons, the department runs a rich Jewish Informal Education programme, including:

• Lunch-and-learn sessions

• Chessed and social action opportunities

• Festival celebrations

• Overseas trips to Poland and Israel

The department also coordinates cross-curricular activities to promote Jewish values and festivals across the school and works with external agencies to enhance students’ Jewish experiences.

Career Pathways Linked to the Subject

Jewish Studies develops transferable skills such as critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and articulate written expression. Graduates of the department have gone on to study degrees in:

• Philosophy and Theology

• Medicine

• Politics

• History

• Law

• Sciences

Department Achievements

• Strong GCSE and A Level outcomes

• High levels of student engagement

• Successful progression to a wide range of academic and professional pathways

• A vibrant and well-regarded Jewish Studies and Informal Education programme

Contact Information

For further information about Jewish Studies at King David High School, please contact:

Religious Studies: Rabbi C. Cohen - c.cohen@kdhigh.co.uk 

Jewish Informal Education: Rabbi A Schwartz – a.schwartz@kdhigh.co.uk