This week, our school community gathered for a moving Yom HaZikaron assembly, reflecting on Israel’s Memorial Day—a day that honours the 25,417 soldiers and security personnel, along with 5,229 civilians from all communities and denominations, who have given their lives defending Israel and protecting its people. 
 
Unlike other memorial days, Yom HaZikaron is deeply personal. It’s not about generals or grand victories, but about young men and women — people barely older than our students — who stood up when called upon. They chose courage, not for glory, but to safeguard their families, communities, and the freedom to live as Jews in safety. A highlight of the assembly was the personal story shared about Binyamin Meir Airley, a young man who embodied quiet heroism. Binyamin, who loved hiking, sketching, and studying Torah, served in the elite 101st Paratroopers unit of the IDF. In November 2023, at just 21 years old, he was tragically killed while saving his comrades during an operation in Gaza. His life, marked by humility, kindness, and dedication, continues to inspire.
 
The assembly concluded with a powerful minute of silence, standing in solidarity with Israel. As cars stop and people stand still across Israel during Yom HaZikaron, so did our students, taking time to remember and reflect. We encourage everyone in our school to honour these sacrifices not only in remembrance but through daily acts of kindness, standing up for others, and contributing positively to our world.

A student with an Israeli background was invited to light a memorial candle for the school.

May the memories of all who have fallen continue to inspire us to live with purpose and compassion.

This week, students at Yavneh Boys came together in solemn reflection to mark Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. This important occasion commemorates the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust, along with the countless others who suffered under Nazi persecution.

The assembly centred on the theme of "Remembering Through Responsibility", drawing a meaningful connection to the week’s Torah portion, Parashat Shemini, which discusses the laws of Kashrut. While Kashrut may at first appear to be a set of dietary regulations, the assembly highlighted how, during the Holocaust, maintaining these laws became a profound act of spiritual resistance and identity preservation. 

A particularly moving story shared with students was that of a group of women in the Kovno Ghetto, who risked severe punishment in order to maintain Kashrut. Even in the harshest conditions, these women showed extraordinary courage and determination—smuggling clean potato peels to avoid non-kosher food and using a pareve knife hidden at great personal risk. One woman, when caught and beaten for hiding the knife, famously said, “They took my knife, but not my kashrus.” Students also learned about the role of Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the Aish Kodesh, who offered spiritual guidance in the Warsaw Ghetto. Despite unimaginable loss and danger, he continued to teach Torah, reminding those around him that even in the silence and suffering, the Jewish soul could still speak. His hidden writings were recovered after the war and remain a powerful symbol of resilience and faith.

The assembly concluded with a moment of silence, as students were invited to reflect on the lives lost and the strength of those who endured. As was said in the final remarks: “Their legacy challenges us to live with purpose, to uphold our traditions, and to stand against hatred and injustice in all forms.” 

​At Yavneh Boys, we remember. We honour. And we commit to carrying forward the lessons of the past with dignity and responsibility.

Last Thursday night’s Leil Shishi was centred around the theme of Kashrus, in connection with Parshas Shemini. The evening began with an engaging introduction from Rabbi Sholom Schwalbe - widely known as The Maggid of Yavneh - who captivated the room with powerful stories illustrating the importance of Kashrus in our daily lives.
Following this, the boys rotated through a lively “carousel” of sessions, delving into key Kashrus topics: Shechita, Kosher Fish, Bishul Akum, Kosher Milk, and Checking for Insects. The sessions were interactive, informative, and hands-on.
The evening concluded with an exciting quiz to review the material learned. Congratulations to our winners, Benjamin Addleman and Joel Shalom, who each received Amazon vouchers!

Congratulations Year 12s Jacob Maslin and Yoel Levine for completing the Jerusalem half-marathon and raising needed funds for Shalva, (שַׁלְוָה). Shalva is a non-profit organisation supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities and their families in Israel.

​We are proud of you both.

In preparation for Pesach, students in Years 7-9 at Yavneh Boys had the incredible opportunity to learn about and participate in the mitzvah of baking their own matzah. Under the guidance of Rabbi Shmuley Brown, the boys engaged in a hands-on experience, from learning about the significance of matzah, Halachos and different traditions to rolling out the dough and baking it fresh.
 
This special session allowed students to connect with the traditions of Pesach in a meaningful and practical way. They explored the importance of the 18-minute process, ensuring the dough did not become chametz, and gained a deeper appreciation for this central mitzvah.
 
​It was an enriching and enjoyable experience, bringing the lessons of Pesach to life in the classroom and strengthening the students' connection to their Jewish heritage. Well done to all the boys for their enthusiasm and participation!

Last night’s Leil Shishi was an evening of insight, engagement, and hands-on learning as we were honoured to be visited by Dayan Yossi Moore from the Manchester Beis Din.
The evening began with a special presentation, as Dayan Moore awarded last week’s Shul Challenge winners with personalised Siddurim, recognising their dedication and commitment.
Following the award ceremony, Dayan Moore delivered a fascinating shiur on the complexities of selling Chametz before Pesach. He provided an exclusive glimpse into the inner workings of the Beis Din on Erev Pesach, shedding light on the intricate halachic and legal mechanisms involved in ensuring a valid Mechiras Chametz.
The learning then became even more interactive as the boys split into groups, each led by a Rebbe, to explore different forms of Kinyan (halachic acquisition). Each group focused on a distinct method. Some learnt about Kesef, acquiring an item through monetary payment, while others examined Shtar, the use of a legal document to formalise a transaction. Another group explored Chatzer, the concept of acquiring something by virtue of it being placed in one’s property. The boys also discovered Agav, where ownership of land automatically transfers moveable items along with it. Suddar, the practice of barter using an exchange of an item like a garment, was demonstrated, as well as Odisa, where an acknowledgement itself acts as an acquisition. Finally, the group discussing Tekias Kaf appreciated the significance of a handshake as a binding agreement.
To make the learning experience even more tangible, the boys had the opportunity to act out each type of Kinyan, taking on roles as Dayanim and non-Jewish purchasers. This hands-on approach brought the halachos to life in a way that was both educational and enjoyable.
The evening concluded with a well-deserved serving of pizza and chips, providing the perfect ending to a fantastic night of Torah and camaraderie.
A huge thank you to Dayan Moore for sharing his invaluable time and wisdom and for answering all the boys' questions with patience and clarity. His visit truly enriched our understanding of the halachic underpinnings of transactions, leaving the boys inspired and more knowledgeable about the depth of Torah law.

Celebrating our 'Shul Design' winners. They were presented with personalised Siddurim by Dayan Yossie Moore.