Language

Language Lead: Mrs Alison Levy

Vision

At Menorah Foundation School, we strive for our children to be able to access ancient Hebrew texts, such as prayers, the Hebrew bible, Talmud and biblical commentaries. We aim to instil an appreciation and curiosity for the structure of the ancient language whilst instilling the children with the confidence to decode and understand these texts accurately. Children are encouraged to analyse to identify the messages and lessons one can take from such texts. 

Beyond our school, we aim to equip our children to participate in Jewish prayer sessions in the synagogue and beyond, and all Jewish rituals. Through the teaching of our bespoke ancient Hebrew language programme, we desire that children will be able to connect with their heritage and actively participate in Jewish life. It is our hope that our children develop a lifelong love of studying Torah. 

How We Teach Language at MFS

At Menorah Foundation, the focus of our language programme is to provide a linguistic foundation for reading comprehension and an appreciation of classical civilisation. Pupils will be taught an extensive ancient Hebrew vocabulary - which is progressive from Nursery to Y6 - and how to apply this in reading and writing. Discussions about ancient Hebrew texts being studied are conducted in English.

We place great importance on teaching Hebrew reading and handwriting, starting from Reception. Our initial focus is on block script, which aligns with the characters children encounter in their early reading. We view handwriting as a skill and a critical aid in reinforcing reading proficiency.

As children advance into Year 1, they begin to learn script handwriting, with the first set of letters introduced throughout the year, and the remaining taught in Year 2. Custom script workbooks developed by our school enable students to practise and perfect their letter formation. By the end of Year 2, pupils are expected to not only master the basics but also start to develop their handwriting style, in keeping with the school’s handwriting policy. 

Beyond Year 2, handwriting becomes an essential component of all written assignments. In Year 3, Rashi script is introduced. By Year 4, Rashi is incorporated into Chumash studies, where children have the opportunity to read and translate Rashi explanations. This practice serves to enhance their understanding and reading of Rashi script while also allowing them to hone their regular script handwriting. 

In Years 5 and Year 6, all reading skills are consolidated and the reading of Gemoro is introduced. 

Reading and writing proficiency is evaluated regularly to ensure consistent progress. For those children needing additional support, a robust intervention programme is in place.

Overall, our ancient Hebrew language programme is designed to develop proficient reading and meticulous handwriting skills in our children, supporting their academic journey and fostering a deep connection with their heritage.

Impact

As a result of our language teaching at Menorah Foundation School, you will see:

• Children who can access ancient Hebrew texts with confidence.
• Children who can follow and lead prayer sessions.
• Children who have developed a love of learning the ancient texts, and are eager to talk about their learning.
• Children who are connected with their heritage and able to fully participate in Jewish life.