Unlike many small Jewish communities which consist predominantly of the elderly, Chatham is fortunate to have a comparatively large number of young families among its members. The Synagogue keeps the issue of education under constant review.  At present the following activities take place:

Children's and Parents' Group

A children's and parents' group “Atid” meets every month at the Synagogue during the main Shabbat morning service which begins at 10.00. The group's meetings start at 10.30 in the Centenary Hall. They are designed primarily for toddlers and children of pre-school age, although older children are very welcome to take part as helpers.  The group's focus is on play within a Jewish framework which reflects the religious calendar.  Snacks for the children are offered during the session, and it ends in time for all to rejoin the main congregation in shul for the priestly blessing.

Contact David or Joanna Herling for further details: d.a.herling@city.ac.uk.

Ivrit/cheder group

This new group for families with young children will be meeting monthly on Sundays to have fun learning Hebrew and comparing notes on basic aspects of Jewish living

Learners’ services

These are monthly Shabbat services for anybody who would like to know more about what goes on in synagogue with a view to participating more fully. No prior knowledge is assumed, and services last just over an hour

Bar/Batmitzvah Training

The Synagogue provides for all aspects of preparation for Bar/Batmitzvah, including regular one-to-one sessions to teach the skills of leyning and haftorah reading. A flexible approach is taken to the content of Bar/Batmitzvah ceremonies in order to accommodate any level of pre-existing religious knowledge and the differing talents of the individuals involved.  Bar/Batmitzvah ceremonies normally take place on Shabbat.

Parents of young people interested in being Bar/Batmitzvah at Chatham are invited to make contact with the Synagogue at the earliest opportunity to discuss their needs.

Please email david Herling at d.a.herling@city.ac.uk for further information on education at Chatham. Visitors are always welcome at our services and we are more than willing to discuss any questions you may have after the service.

School Visits

We are very much aware that the study of comparative religion is an important part of the school curriculum and we are always willing to arrange school visits to the synagogue. If you wish to arrange a school visit or any other type of educational visit, please contact Gabriel Lancaster on 01634 842893.