Key stages 1 and 2

Discovering Judaism investigates Judaism in a fun and creative way. This page explains our teaching strategy for Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils, and shows examples of our workshops.

At Key Stage 1, a variety of tasks are used to engage pupils in learning about Jewish life, relating their learning to personal experience. Children are encouraged to use their senses to experience the Jewish world, and make objects express their learning in a creative way. Repetition and quizzes are used to reinforce key messages.

Programmes may include any of the following:

Object handling, creative writing, drawing, art and craft activities, discussion and debate, role play, drama, stories, using worksheets, making / tasting food, song.

Sample Programme: Abigail's Candlesticks

Children are taught about what Jewish families do on Sabbath, using the story of a little girl called Abigail. Like Abigail, they look closely at Sabbath objects, take part in a Sabbath ceremony, and make a candle holder of their own.

"Excellent, helpful and friendly staff, who are extremely well informed… Activities were interesting and imaginative and brought out the best in the children."
Teacher from St Mary's and St Pancras' Primary School, Camden

At Key Stage 2, pupils are encouraged to explore the meanings which Jewish rituals and objects convey, and to make connections with experiences in their own lives. The emphasis is on learning through practical activities; during a visit pupils will see, touch, draw and discuss Jewish objects. They will take part in Jewish rituals and activities, taste Jewish food and make their own related objects/art. Judaism is studied as a living tradition, and objects from 'real' homes are used alongside museum pieces to convey the vibrancy of today's Judaism.

"Very helpful and friendly staff. Very interesting information. Very appropriate tasks and activities for this age of children i.e. making challah cloths. Thank you".
Key Stage 2 Teacher, Grafton Primary School

Pupils are also able to tour the West London Synagogue, a beautiful and historic 19th synagogue where education programmes are taking place while the Museum is re-developed.