1

One of my teachers shared an important life message with me regarding character:

"There are some people whose character becomes evident the second they walk into a room. For others, their character is only revealed when they decided to open their mouth. There are others still, for whom their character is only truly expressed when they close the door behind them."

All the learning we do in school, centres around building character. And as we arrive at the final week of the school year, the character of our students, and of our College becomes fully expressed. Knowing that next week we will no longer have our daily school routines in place, how do we approach this week? Is it with abandon or with appreciation?

The answer to this question lies in the quality of our character. Pride in who we are and what we do, is what drives us to be our best selves – to continue to concentrate on our learning and davening, even when the weather outside is warm and the salty sea-breeze is wafting its way into the classroom.

The way in which the Yavneh year is closing is one which reflects the menschlichkeit of its students and staff. Starting from the final day of our Year 12 students’ schooling in which time was spent farewelling students and staff, with a spirit of gratitude and sensitivity, to the way in which students have embraced the End of Year programs in Secondary – action packed days of engaging and fun learning experiences,carefully planned by Head of Secondary School, Mrs Avigail Wonder,together with a range of staff including Heads of Department and theJewish Life team.

On a personal note, I was inspired to hear that our Year 12 students, now alumni, ensured that there was a daily minyan for Shacharit, Mincha and Maariv on their class holiday following graduation. Class holidays following the cessation of school are infamous for the many activities that often occur that conflict with the values that are espoused by any upstanding school. To hear that our former students are living the values of their parents and our College during this time, is a tribute to their stellar character and to the many positive role models they connected to and learned from both at home and at school.

As we now close the door on the 2019 academic year, it is a fitting time to thank the many partners who ensured the smooth running and constant growth of our offerings at Yavneh. Under the guidance of Ms Skewes, staff, management and leadership have worked together as a whole to ensure that our students are supported and challenged along the road to character refinement. We are grateful to partner with parents who complement the College’s educational objectives and provide their children, our students, with consistent messaging regarding the traditional Torah values that we seek to transmit.

As the summer beckons, we hope that you will close the door on a year that has enabled you to grow as a mensch. And we look forward to welcoming you back, refreshed, in 2020.

Shabbat Shalom

Chaim Cowen Deputy Principal, Head of Jewish Studies

HOW YOU CLOSE THE DOOR

ANNOUNCEMENTSBAR/BAT MITZVAH REGISTER!

Please remember to register the date of your son or daughter’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah with Lynda Pilalis at Reception.

HOST OUR SHERUT GIRLS

To invite them for a Shabbat or Yom Tov meal, please contact Lynda Pilalis at the main Reception on 9528 4911 or email l.pilalis@yavneh.vic.edu.au

L E I B L E R Y A V N E H C O L L E G E W E E K LY N E W S L E T T E R | 1 3 t h D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9 - 1 5 t h K I S L E V 5 7 8 0

בס׳׳ד

MAZAL TOVS:

To the Schmulian family on Ruby’s Bat Mitzvah.

To the Triger family on Sivan’s Bat Mitzvah.

To the Skolnick family on Ari’s Bar Mitzvah.

To the Chazan family on Sophie’s Bat Mitzvah.

May you continue to have nachat from your family.

CONDOLENCES:

To the Mirvis family on the passing of Rabbi Dr Lionel Mirvis z’l.

To Adriani Tzouvani on the passing of her father.

May your families know no more sorrow.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

DECEMBER

Fri 20 Last day of Crèche

Last day Kinder Holiday Program

CANDLE LIGHTING:Shabbat Begins: 8:18 pm Shabbat Ends: 9:24 pm

2

Congratulations to each and every student, their parents and dedicated teachers on the excellent VCE results in 2019. More than half of our cohort achieved an ATAR above 90.More than 26% of students achieved an ATAR above 95.More than 18% of students achieved an ATAR above 98.Two students are to be commended for achieving an ATAR above 99.We derive great pride from both the academic performance and the �ne character of our VCE 2019 graduates. Mazal tov to the two Duxes of Leibler Yavneh College 2019, Dale Goralsky and Benjamin Levin who both achieved an ATAR of 99.65. We also congratulate Emma Ja�a, Koby Paluch and Ariel Zelwer who all achieved a perfect score of 50 in English. At Yavneh we derive great pride from both the academic performance and the �ne character of our VCE 2019 graduates.

MAZAL TOV CLASS OF 2019!

yavneh.vic.edu.au Living Judaism today. For tomorrow.

בס’’ד

3

After working hard for what seems like an eternity, holidays are on everyone’s minds, especially that of Ya’akov. He’s been working for his father-in-law Lavan for twenty years and has grown his business tremendously, but it’s been difficult and stressful, and it’s taken a toll on his family. This week, his work is done, and it is time to deal with the relationships that he’s been neglecting, and the disputes he’s left unresolved. He has to face the fact that ignoring things that are important, but not urgent can have dire effects, and he fears that the brother from whom he fled in fear of his own safety now endangers much more than his own life – his whole family is at risk.

However, Ya’akov does not shy away and ignore the problem any longer. He doesn’t return home to where his parents live. He doesn’t attempt to settle down. As soon as the urgent demands of work are done, he travels directly towards his brother’s home, Mount Se’ir. He knows that now he must deal with the all-important relationships in his life.

This is the last Yavneh Kesher for the year, as holidays are upon us too. The pressures of work are coming to an end and holidays are here to provide us with an opportunity to learn from Ya’akov’s example. During the year there may have been things that were important, but not urgent enough to climb the to do list high enough to actually get done. This time is a tremendous gift for all students, parents and teachers to recall what is important but not urgent and to invest as much as possible in those relationships, hobbies or areas of personal and spiritual development that we care so much about, but don’t always show.

May G-d bless us with the joy of loving reunions like Ya’akov and Esav enjoyed, resolved conflicts, fulfilment from pursuits we haven’t tried in a while and a safe, wholesome holiday.

Marcus Rosenberg Secondary Jewish Studies Teacher

Dear parents, students and fellow teachers,

After 40 years in teaching, I have decided to pack my bags, put away the white board markers, slowly wade through the sea of materials that I have accumulated and finally bid my profession and you all farewell.

My life thus far from my birth and life in England, through aliya at the age of 7, migration to South Africa at the age of 15, return to Israel at the age of 35, and then to Australia five years later has been an amazing journey.

My professional life as a teacher started in South Africa at the tender age of 21 when I faced a group of 15-year olds not that much younger than I was. After teaching at three Jewish Day Schools in three cities, my husband and I took the decision to leave SA and go on Aliya. We settled in Ashkelon where I became an English teacher and head of English for 5 years. Teaching in Israel brought many challenges and some rewards. I am particularly thankful for the amazing course for bilingual teachers I did at Tel-Aviv university. Since life in Israel turned out to be very hard for two struggling teachers, we accepted an offer from Mount Scopus College and landed in this amazing city. Geoff and I (and initially our two sons) spent 8 years at Mount Scopus during which time I undertook extensive training with the revolutionary NETA Hebrew program, and finally I reached the last milestone on a very long road, my warm cocoon for the last 11 years - Leibler Yavneh College.

I have loved working at Yavneh for the support, guidance, co-operation, leadership and friendship I have been so fortunate to receive. The warm smiles that greet me every day, the genuine caring for one another’s well-being, the beautiful messages from our JS department at assemblies, my wonderful, inspiring students and colleagues, speaking Hebrew and imparting our ancient language to our students, the central role Hebrew plays in the life of our college - all have made these eleven years of hard work worth every minute.

My focus as Head of Hebrew has been turning my department into the most professional it can be. I have worked hard and invested much time in guiding teachers who had not received second language specific training to become competent second language teachers. This work along with my own classroom teaching has been very rewarding indeed.

Thinking of how to impart another language is a beautiful mental challenge, teaching Hebrew has been a privilege, it has kept this miracle of a language fresh and ever present in my mind. Now it is time for me to change direction and pace in pursuit of another of my passions and what I hope will become a second- if late- career in health and nutrition.

I thank you my students for your interest, your co-operation, your bright smiles and your love. I shall miss you! I hope you will continue to delve further into Hebrew and nurture a love of this ancient-modern language so full of mystery. I thank you my Hebrew team for your unbelievably hard work and great dedication to your students and craft and for putting up with my pedantic demands, and I thank you the parents for caring so much about Hebrew and for your support and interest over these eleven years.

I wish you all הצלחה רבה בכל מעשי ידיכם

Debbie Garber Head of Hebrew

בס׳׳ד

WEEKLY DVAR TORAH - VAYISHLACH

SHALOM - GOODBYE

4

בס׳׳ד

Please be mindful of others when you use our drop off and pick up zone at the entrance to the College in Nagle Avenue. The most efficient way to manage the traffic is for parents to drive down Nagle Ave in an easterly direction and then pull into the curb if your child is ready to be collected. If your child is not outside, please circle around the block until your child has come outside to be picked up.

The security guard’s role is primarily to protect our students and not to manage traffic, please enable the guard to focus on security by following our Kiss and Go guidelines.

David Fisher Head of Administration

KISS & GO @ YAVNEH

Please let Lynda Pilalis @ l.pilalis@yavneh.vic.edu.au know if any ex-students have made Aliya, so we can update the Aliya Honour Board.

ALIYAH HONOUR BOARD

UNIFORM SHOP NEWS***WINTER CLEARANCE***Old style tracksuit ( limited sizes) - $30Cotton lined anoraks (sizes14 - 2xl) - $20Zip through sports jackets - flannel lining (limited sizes) - $10Zip through sports jackets - fleece lining ( limited sizes ) - $20***NEW IN STOCK***Fleece tracksuit pants -$55Yavneh scarf - $23

UNIFORM SHOP HOURS:

Tuesday Jan 28 12-4pmWednesday Jan 29 2-5pmThursday 30 Jan 2-5pm

The ordering system is in place for your convenience. Use Flexischools to order uniforms.

SECOND HAND UNIFORMS - **PLEASE NOTE NEW CHANGES!**

The YPO Second Hand Uniform Shop is ready to accept your donations of pre-loved uniforms in good condition. All proceeds are returned to support our kids via YPO projects.

Contact Hayley Jaffe (hayley@wilcorehealth.com.au or WhatsApp 0409 138 949) if you wish to buy or donate pre-loved uniforms.

Donations can also be dropped off with Stella at the Primary Office.

Join over 320 members in the Yavneh 2nd Hand Uniform & Books Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/yavnehuniform/ to buy and sell your pre-loved uniforms, books or extra-curricular gear (eg. ballet, karate, cricket kit). Please restrict the sales and requests to items relevant to education.

Please note: The YPO will no longer be accepting second hand books but you are welcome to buy, swap and sell them via the Facebook page.

A personal THANK YOU and YASHER KOACH to all parents who donated to and bought from the Yavneh 2nd Hand Uniform Shop in 2019.

With your help, we raised over $6,000 for the YPO projects which will directly benefit your children.

The Yavneh 2nd Hand Uniform Shop will take a break from 24 December 2019 till 20 January 2020.

I am very pleased to announce that all the Yavneh old sports tracksuits (which have been phased out from the end of this year) are being collected on behalf of the Reagan Milstein Foundation for use by overseas underprivileged sports clubs. Please DONATE all your old school tracksuits by leaving with Stella or dropping at my house in a special bin.

Have a good, safe holiday…. and don’t forget to contact me when you have put aside all your old uniforms for donation!!

Hayley (0409 138 949)

THANK YOU!

5

בס׳׳ד

6

בס׳׳ד

YEAR 2 TRIP TO CERES BY 2 ALEPHOn the 28th of November, Spring, 2019 we went to CERES. (Eytan Krigsman)

We went on a bus. It took 75 minutes to get there. (Noam Getz)

The bus ride took forever because the bus driver took the long way. (Lexi Ber)

We missed morning tea! (Zev Knibbe)

I got bus sick! (Mia Teller)

We did 3 activities. One was a nature walk, one was ‘A River’s Tale’ and one was a netting activity. (Ezra Goodhardt)

We went for a bushwalk and talked about the rubbish destroying the creek. (Odelia Trieger)

The person who led us warned us that if we see a snake we stay still. We didn’t see any snakes. (Lexi Ber)

She told us a story about a boy who got bitten by a snake. (Abbey Ifrah)

When I heard that, I got scared. (Jared Herman)

We did ‘A River’s Tale’ where we put things into a tub of water to understand that the things we do, can hurt the river. (Linda Raleigh)

Everyone in the class got a container with something different in it. (Abbey Ifrah)

There were chemicals in the containers. (Eli Mond)

In the story my name was Harry. My container had purple colouring and it represented oil spilling from my car. (Dana Spivak)

The most challenging activity was netting from the Merri Creek. It was really hard to catch any water bugs. We only got 2 or 3. My dad said we can get diseases from blood worms. (Jackie Bassin)

My favourite activity was fishing because we caught blood worms. (Amit Rabba)

Amit held the blood worm. She put it in a plastic container. (Libby Henzel)

We caught a baby dragonfly. This was very interesting that dragonflies lay their eggs in water. (Mia Teller)

It had cute little legs and it was going to turn into a dragonfly the next day. (Eli Mond)

I had huge gumboots so I could go in the water. (Noah Kave)

I got all wet and muddy. (Linda Raleigh)

I learned that you should never leave rubbish on the floor and if you ever see rubbish, pick it up! (Jared Herman)

So now we know we should take care of our environment. (Lexi Ber)

Mellisa Bloom Primary General Studies Teacher

7

PRIMARY ART - CHANUKKAH

בס׳׳ד

Samara Adamson-PinczewskiPrimary Art Teacher

Zac Balter - 4A

Caleb Epstein - 6A

Leah Spivak - 5B

Orly Mond - 4A

Sara Almeleh - 6B

8

בס׳׳ד

ORIGAMI FOR EMUNAH! A PERSONAL ACCOUNT OF THE WORLD GATHERING OF CHABAD LEADERS

Last Sunday Oren Davis, Eyal Berry, Nadav Leibler, Zac Liberman, Joshua Gochin, Zac Linnow, Liad Menachem and Ozzie Eckstein set up a stall to sell origami outside Coles Elsternwick. They chose to raise funds for Emunah, an organisation in Israel working tirelessly with kids and families at risk to help them break the cycle and live better lives.

Thank you boys for your hard work and being such amazing ambassadors for Yavneh and Emunah. Well done boys!

Last week Year 5 Aleph were privileged to have Mr. Joel Goldman, Asher’s dad, come in to our class to talk to us about his experience in going to the Chabad Kinus, the world gathering of Chabad leaders in Brooklyn, New York. He went to the world headquarters in Crown Heights (otherwise known as 770, short for its address, 770 Eastern Parkway). He attended a dinner for the over 5,000 rabbis of Chabad who work all over the world bringing Jews closer to Judaism. He told us how special it was to daven with thousands of Jews in one room. He shared amazing stories and videos from the Kinus. He also told us to always look at the positive side of life and to be thankful for everything we have. We would like to thank Mr. Goldman for coming in and telling us all his wonderful stories. The Students of Year 5 Aleph

9

FROM YAVNEH’S PHD (PRIMARY HEBREW DEPARTMENT)

בס׳׳ד

So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Goodbye…Le’Hitraot & Shalom.

Tests have been corrected, books have been collected, reports have been written and bags have been packed. The 2019 school year has come to an end. The end of a school year is never easy. Bonds are formed between teachers and students. Relationships made between exercise book pages. The PHD are all very proud of our students and all their achievements, both in and out of the classrooms. The level of Hebrew has definitely improved, and we are certain that 2020 will bring with it bigger and better successes.

Our students are able to converse about the weather, know what to order in a restaurant and can tell what time their after-school activities begin. They are familiar with present tense, infinitive and can list all the pronouns in song. Our students can sing popular Israeli songs and can design the perfect bedroom, complete with all the necessary furniture. They understand the differences between a city and a kibbutz and are familiar with the geography of Israel. And all this is done in Hebrew!

The PHD would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your ongoing support. Please continue to support our efforts by encouraging your children to practice their reading over the break to ensure they will be ready for all that 2020 brings.

Wishing all Kesher readers a relaxing and safe Summer break and a Channuka Sameach.

Shabbat Shalom שבת שלום

Sharon SamuniHead of Hebrew Primary and Secondary Teacher

Helen SavitzPrimary Hebrew Teacher

10

בס׳׳ד

YEAR 6 GRADUATIONYear 6 graduation was so enjoyable. I had the opportunity to experience what it is like to graduate. I got to sing and celebrate with my friends and I had a terrific night.

I loved Year 6 and Primary, but I cannot wait for Secondary. I loved all the excursions, especially camp. It was all amazing. I loved Primary and all the learning experiences.

Orel Morris

Graduation was amazing. We had hours of practice, which paid off. Personally, it was my favourite concert as I loved the songs. The musicians were incredible and the whole night was just extraordinary. My favourite song was “Vezakeni” because the whole message our teachers were telling in this song was to appreciate our parents and grandparents and to be grateful for what we have.

Caleb Epstein

During our Graduation journey, we revisited our Living Historians unit. This was when our grandparents came in and we learned all about their lives. From what they ate for breakfast, to what they did at school and for hobbies, to when they went to bed. We were mind blown to see how different our childhoods were. From our first two meetings, we took all of our information, and turned it into a biography. This helped me appreciate how milestones like graduations brings our families closer.

Simone Grinberg

On December the fifth, the Year Sixes had their graduation concert. At the concert we sang: My Favourite Things, Vezakani, A Medley of Hebrew Songs, and I Just Can’t Wait to Be in Secondary. When we finished all the songs, we got handed a certificate and a keyring with ‘Year 6 2019’ and the Yavneh symbol on it. After the concert, we all went to Tali’s house to have an after-party. It was wonderful to share this special occasion with our families and a fantastic way to finish Primary.

Nadia Maidenberg

Terry Crothers Deputy Head of Primary and General Studies Teacher

11

On Thursday 5 December, year nine had the privilege of attending the first of five city experience days. Thursday’s theme was all about professions in law and the multifaceted way it affects our lives. We started our day off with davening in East Melbourne shule. We then went to a session with Jennifer Paneth at Monash University where we experienced a snapshot of what a law class entails. We heard from students currently studying law and people who are using their aptitude in law to make the world a better place. After that, we went to both the Supreme and County courts. This was the highlight of our day, and possibly the week, as we were able to witness a high-profile Murder case that has been all over the news. We also were able to glimpse the workings of an armed robbery and assault case, which showed us that the law truly isn’t black and white. After the courts, we went to a prominent firm in the city- and we proceeded to be amazed. From a unicorn chair and a life-sized superhero statue that greeted us the instant we walked in, to the bikes hanging from the ceiling and prize wheel, we realised immediately that we were in for an exciting treat. Josh Diamond and Jeremy Goldman are both Yavneh graduates and they gave us a tour around their unique workplace. Complete with a kosher lunch and a try on the golf simulator, Josh and Jeremy showed us that practicing law can be really fun. We headed back to East Melbourne Shule for a talk from two prominent Jewish lawyers who manage to balance their Judaism with their work. Ian Waller and Nomi Kaltmann (another Yavneh graduate) gave us an insight into their daily lives and answered our many questions. Overall, Thursday and our whole city week was a truly incredible and enlightening program, and we now have a better understand of inner-city Melbourne and those who work there. Thanks to Morah Slonim for her tireless work and commitment - the current year eights have a lot to look forward to!

Tahni Paluch and Eliana Morris Year 9

On Monday the 9th of December, the year 9 students were extremely privileged to continue their city week with a very fun challenge. The year level was split into small groups who were then sent to complete a scavenger hunt around the city. Students learnt about the history of Melbourne and some of its famous sites. Students also learnt about the Jewish history in Melbourne from this scavenger hunt. Some stops included Parliament House, the State Library, Fitzroy Gardens, Cook’s Cottage, Chinatown, Lygon Street, Melbourne Central and many more. This was a great way to start a very fun, educational and warm day. The afternoon was spent at East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation where we were lucky to have three speakers come and share their stories with us. We had Eldad from JNF talk to us about the connection to the land. We then had Gaby Lefkowitz talk to us about the work that he was able to do with Indigenous communities through Jewish organizations. Finally, we were lucky enough to have Rabbi Avi Bart teach us about the connections between Jews and the Indigenous people and what may have driven William Cooper to take his petition. This was a day full of fun and learning.

Jonah Feiglin and Gideon Barnett Year 9

LEARNING AND CONNECTING – END OF YEAR

Despite the 38˚C temperatures that we endured this past Monday, one could be forgiven for thinking that we haven’t yet hit summer and that we are still in the middle of the year. At Yavneh Secondary one could make the same wrong assumption as the school is buzzing with activity and learning. Exams have been sat and marked, formal classroom learning has concluded – yet at Yavneh Secondary, the learning never ends.

During the past two weeks our students and teachers have learned and connected over meaningful educational activities both on- and off-campus. The Science department ran the ‘Forensic Frenzy’ for Year 7s and the ‘Engineering Challenge’ for Year 8. The Hebrew department ran ……… The Year 10s had a thorough introduction to the rigour and richness of VCE life with VCE AdViCE day and the Year 11s delved into Jewish thought and values at the ‘Ayeka’ conference. Each year level enjoyed Outdoor Education activities including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, indoor rockclimbing and more.

The Year 9 City Week is a new highlight of the Yavneh calendar where our Year 9 students spent 5 days exploring the city and participating in a range of tours and activities.

We are so proud of how our students have participated in all the programs they attended. They were stellar ambassadors of our school and the feedback we have received from presenters, tour-guides, activity facilitators have made us proud.

Avigail Wonder Acting Head of Secondary School

בס׳׳ד

FROM THE SECONDARY SCHOOL

12

On Tuesday, the 10th of December, Mrs. MacGregor arranged for us to have an Art day during City Week. We spent the day touring the many decriminalized ‘Street Art’ Lanes of inner-city Melbourne. We learned about the various techniques used on the walls of the laneways and saw some famous artists’ works. Banksy and the AC/DC laneway are just a few of the famous street artworks that our city boasts. I feel that this day was one of the most inspirational days of our entire city week. I have personally started doing street art and have felt it is a simple activity anyone could do. From memes to detailed artwork anything goes in the street art scene.

Here is some of the most recent street art that I developed after our art day.

Samuel Tenne Year 9

On Wednesday the 11th of December, 9a and 9b split up to spend the day doing a Metro tunnel tour, exploring careers to do with the Metro tunnel, visiting Treasury Building and the Eureka Tower.

At the Metro headquarters where we were able to see the planned future for the Metro tunnel by being exposed to various diagrams, 3D models, VR headsets and video games. This was very interactive and made just learning about a train tunnel really interesting and fun. We also learnt about the different rates of population growth that will happen in Victoria. We then went upstairs in the HQ and looked at various careers that would be involved in the creation of the tunnel. We focused on our individual skills and what we enjoy, to guide us in possible future career paths. This was very interactive with many quizzes, discussions and worksheets.

At the Treasury Building, we looked at the outside architecture which our guide said represents opportunity and democracy. We walked through the building and saw many propaganda posters for the conscription debate, some of which we had previously learned about in class. There were also a few rooms that were made up as how a family would live at that time. It was very interesting to see how these people would live and find out that 8 children and their mother would have to sleep in one tiny room all together.

At the Eureka tower, we went up to the 88th floor and did a competition to answer questions about the city of Melbourne and its buildings. Although most of us had already been, it was still great to go again.

Amira Kacser and Avi Segman Year 9

בס׳׳ד

CONTINUED

13

בס׳׳ד

CONTINUED

14

בס׳׳ד

We are proud to announce that two of our Yavneh Secondary students have won awards from the 15th Brighton Scout Group of which they are members. The 15th Brighton Scout Group is a Jewish Scout group in Melbourne.

To prepare our current Year 10 students for their upcoming VCE journey, an ‘AdViCE Day’ was held on Thursday December 5th. Students were provided with an introductory session to the Victorian Certificate of Education, where the requirements and expectations of the Certificate were outlined, alongside an explanation of Study Scores and the ATAR.

Students then participated in a Jewish Studies program run by Rabbi Chaim Cowen and the members of Tzevet. Ellie Goldenberg and Jonah Bell of Year 10 moderated a very well-received panel discussion of Yavneh graduates including Ryan Hendler (Class of 2017), Ari Goldberg and Shylie Arzouan (Class of 2016) as well as Tali Davis (Class of 2019) who shared their VCE experiences, providing those on the precipice of VCE with an insider’s perspective and tips on how to make the most out of the coming two years.

Students were treated to a BBQ lunch and spent the afternoon attending workshops on Question Attack Skills, Creating a Folio, Developing a Personal Study Schedule, Practical Meditation, Study Skills and Interview Skills.

Thanks must go to those who helped make the day so meaningful for our students: Rabbi Chaim Cowen and the Tzevet team, Michael Daskalou, Shelley Engel, Mark Groves, Dawn MacGregor, Rabbi Noam Sendor and Avigail Wonder.

YAVNEH STUDENTS WIN SCOUTING AWARDS

YEAR 10 ADVVICECE DAY

MAZEL TOV TO:

Josh Leivenzon (Year 10)

• Venturer of the Year for the 14-18 age group

Itta Jaffe (Year 7)

• Kelly Hall Award for Scouting

• Outdoor Scout of the Year

• Troop of the Year

Avigail Wonder Acting Head of Secondary School

Rachel Kafka Co-Head of Senior Years, Head of English & VCE Coordinator

Elena MartinCareers Practitioner and Secondary Teacher

15

בס׳׳ד

Ayeka translates to “where are you?”, and this was the underlying question of the conference for all year 11 students this past Friday, that took place at Caulfield Pavilion. The numerous programs and activities that were held throughout the day, aimed at guiding and assisting us in gaining a stronger connection, not only with Judaism, but also deepening the connection we have with ourselves. As we head into year 12 and start questioning what we will do and how we will live our lives when we are no longer students of Leibler Yavneh College, the Ayeka conference taught us life lessons that we will always cherish.

The day began with davening, emphasizing the importance of building our relationship with Hashem, and we soon moved on to the first sessions, which were “what’s the right response to Anti-Semitism”, by Rabbi Menachem Channen, as well as “the Torah-Sports connection”, with Arik Singer. Rabbi Channen’s group focussed on dissecting different scenarios and students gave their opinions of what they thought the correct response would be towards each situation. Meanwhile Arik Singer informed students about the mental side of sports and students were lucky enough to go outside in the lovely weather and play a game of soccer and netball.

Next we enjoyed mingling with each other whilst having a nice morning tea, and soon moved on to an inspirational Beit Midrash Session, which aimed at encouraging us to take responsibility for our own actions. The different stories from the Torah, along with the opinions from different Rabbi’s, emphasized the importance of owning your own actions, a useful lesson that we should all be undertaking throughout life. Next students heard from Gerard Max, who spoke about “advocating for Israel in a world of subjective truth”, whilst Rabbi Andrew Saffer and Dr Tammy Tempelhof questioned “the pursuit of happiness” and spoke about methods to taking further steps to reaching a happier lifestyle.

After the enormous spread of lunch that was organised by the incredible Yossi Gabai, some students sat on the sunny balcony with Sandie Klein, and learnt about “seeing with both eyes”, which was an interactive drama workshop, whilst other students enjoyed the “interactive herring making demo”, by Rabbi Velly Slavin. We then progressed into the creative arts workshop, which consisted of Negel Vasser cup making, flower arranging, Jachnun baking and Challah board designing, along with the making of a tapestry that every student helped to weave. These activities highlighted the significance of unity, since we all worked together in each program, as well as the fact that each activity got us excited for Shabbat. For instance, some people arranged flowers to take home to their families for Shabbat, whilst others prepared Jachnun that they would be sure to enjoy over the weekend. Overall, these activities, as well as the Sikkum at the end of the day, were sure to wrap up the day on a positive note and remind us how lucky we are to have had such an amazing program.

All of us students are very grateful for the staff members who put a lot of time and effort into the wonderful day, and we would also like to thank all of the speakers who came and presented at the program. Every single one of us can put the valuable lessons we learnt at the Ayeka conference, into place, as we embark on the journey that is year 12.

Chaim Cowen Deputy Principal, Head of Jewish Studies

AYEKA CONFERENCE

16

בס׳׳ד

Last Friday we took part in year 11 Yom Iyun. Alongside with fascinating speakers who explored issues such as the right response to antisemitism and how to decorate a Chalah board, we had our own session with the students – we saw together what we can learn about responsibility from Adam and Cain stories. It turned out to be a lot.

Amitai, Avichai, Avishai & HillelThe Tzevet

YEAR 9 GIRLS SHABBATON

The Year 9 Girls Shabbaton was definitely a Shabbat we will remember! Having been the very first time offered to our grade, we had no idea what to expect. I can personally say, any expectations I managed to gather, were met and or exceeded. Us girls davened, ate and slept at the Brighton Hebrew Congregation and would consider it a great first impression of the shule as most of us had never been before. Bringing just a toothbrush, an inflatable mattress and an outfit for Shabbat, we were ready to really bond with each other, Rebbetzin Ahuva, teachers and our amazing Sheruties. As Shabbat came in, we lit, davened Ma'ariv, helped prepare for dinner and sung Shabbat tunes all whilst doing it. Concluding the dinner with a cheeky dessert, we played a solid few games of parliament, a game introduced to us and now we obsess over, waking up around 8:30 the next day for Shacharit. Following the morning service was a lovely Kiddush where we were privileged to meet the regular congregants of the synagogue and not only that but Mrs. Wonder and Morah Slonim dropped by as well. With Mrs. Wonder spending the rest of Shabbat afternoon with us, we were privileged to have benefitted from her presence in our activities. After the Kiddush was a late lunch where we sung and ate some more. After a few hours of Shabbat games with the girls, we had a rather meaningful talk/Shiur regarding soulful moments, our connections to Hashem and really anything on our minds, and then obviously played parliament. At almost the end of Shabbat, Rebbetzin Ahuva and Mrs. Wonder provided answers for a Q&A along with light snacks. The Shabbat was a fun one and I think I can say that on behalf of the Year 9 Girls, there was a slight demand for a short 'get-way', 'destress' and bonding weekend. We thoroughly enjoyed the Shabbaton and would attend another one 100%. Thank you to all that helped organise and make the weekend possible!

Meira Jacobs Year 9

SHABBATON AT BRIGHTON SHULE

Last weekend, we concluded the Year Ten Leadership Program with a Shabbaton at Brighton Shule. Although I had thoroughly enjoyed the other things we had done throughout the year, this was definitely my highlight.

Upon arriving at the Shule, we were informed that we would be responsible for running all the activities and setting and clearing up all meals. We spent the night eating, chatting and running our first student led tochnit. Before bed, we reflected on the importance of respecting our peers and in helping each other.

The next day, we davened with the Brighton congregation and enjoyed a shiur, a series of student-led tochniot, a trip to the park and great food.

We concluded the Shabbaton with a ‘graduation’ of our Leadership Program. We discussed the areas in which we could improve our leadership skills and the role we have in contributing to our school in the coming years.

A special thanks to Rebbetzin Ahuva for hosting us and to Hona and Tamara for running the program. We have learnt so much about ourselves and had such a great time doing it!

Ellie Goldenberg Year 10

TZEVET REPORT

JEWISH LIFE UPDATE

17

בס׳׳ד

Told in English and Pitjantjatjara, this is a celebration of life, beliefs and art of senior Mimili Maku artist Mumu Mike Williams and the land rights movement in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara lands of Central Australia.

Mumu Mike Williams was born in 1952 and passed away in this year. Williams learnt to read and write in Pitjantjatjara and English at the Ernabella Mission School, before working as a stockman in cattle stations. Williams went onto pursue bible studies and became a pastor. His work with the church took him around the world in 1970, visiting Israel, England, India, Europe and America.

Williams is a highly regarded artist with his paintings and works on paper acquired by institutions across Australia.

It Sounded better in My head is by Melbourne author Nina Kenwood. Natalie is an introvert. All her life she has battled with self-esteem issues as a result of suffering with bad acne. But things are improving: She’s just graduated high school and is going to university with her two best friends Zach and Lucy.

But things get complicated when Zac and Lucy become a couple and her parents announce they are divorcing. To make things even more complicated, Zac’s older brother Alex has started acting strangely around her, but Natalie couldn’t be this type. Could she?

Nina Kenwood lives in Melbourne and has worked in the book industry for over ten years, most recently as marketing manager at Readings bookshop.

FROM THE SECONDARY LIBRARY

David EastonSecondary Librarian

18

בס׳׳ד

FROM THE YPO...It began with the annual Open Planning Meeting. Then on to the New Parents’ Welcome Evening, Purim Spiel and Jump Central. There were all the Rosh Chodesh Groups - Basket Weaving, Meditation, Girls’ Night In, Shiur, Cupcake and Cookie Decorating and the Wunder Weave Workshop. In between there were Mothers’ Day Stalls, Fathers’ Day Stalls, the Mango Fundraiser and the Les Twentyman Foundation Drive. And of course, the huge night at Trivial Matters 2.0. The YPO calendar has been packed with activities and events this year and we thank you, our fellow Yavneh parents, for volunteering, participating and coming together as a community.

This year the YPO is delighted to have given our school $25,000 towards the new Music and Performance Centre, and over $60,000 towards bathroom upgrades for the Lower Primary wing to be completed in the near future.

Under the management of Hayley Jaffe, the YPO Second Hand Uniform Shop flourished this year, raising a record revenue of over $6,000 from sales, whilst also giving Yavneh families access to discounted uniforms. A very big thank you to Hayley for her tireless sorting, listing and selling throughout the year.

We are fortunate to have had the support of fantastic staff throughout the year - thank you to Cherylyn Skewes, David Fisher, Daniel Solomon, Naava Eckstein, Tanya Shaltiel, Jordy Tarlinton, Susan Gosling, Rivka Measey, Danny Fantl, John Psiharis, Marie, Angie Szkolnik, Liran Sar Shalom, Stella Ettia, Lynda Pilalis and Rachel Isunza. Thank you all for your invaluable assistance.

We are also grateful to have had the support of Benji Jotkowitz and Reuben Zelwer from Foundation, and in particular the wonderful partnership of College Chairs - last year Avi Gilboa and this year Gerard Max and Ari Schachna.

A very big thank you to our incredible 2019 YPO Committee - Amy Feiglin (Treasurer), Melora Stern (Secretary), Karen Franks (Secondary Representative), Zoe Goodhardt (Primary Representative) and Nicole Kohn (ELC Representative) - for their dedication and passion. It has been an absolute pleasure working together this year.

Special mention must go to three of our longstanding committee members who are stepping aside at the end of 2019: Melora Stern, YPO Secretary for the past four years; Amy Feiglin, YPO Treasurer for the past six years; and Karen Franks, YPO Committee Member for the past twelve years, including four years as Co-Chair. Thank you for your extraordinary commitment and service to the Yavneh Parents’ Organisation and to the College. Your dedication is truly appreciated.

After two wonderful years as Co-Chairs of the YPO, we are proud to be handing over our leadership to Nicole Kohn and Candice Katz for 2020. We look forward to seeing them continue to strengthen and build our Yavneh family.

We are so grateful for the opportunity we had to serve our community and school, and so lucky to have gained even more.

Wishing everyone Shabbat Shalom and a happy and safe summer break.

Tali Boltin & Amanda Hampel YPO Co-Chairs

19

בס׳׳ד

ANSWERS:

SKOLNIK SIBLING QUIZ:

1. Hawthorn2. 33. Carlton and Essendon4. Best on ground 5. 1902

Likes: dancing, soccer, bucket hats, science and history.

Dislikes: fish, loud chewing and cricket.

If you were principal for a day, what would you do? add more windows to classrooms and make more classes outside.

Favourite tuckshop food: Pizza Subs

Unique fact about yourself:I have been dancing since I was 3 years old.

HUMANS OF LEIBLER YAVNEH COLLEGE: Student of the Week

SHIRA SZTROCHLICYEAR 7

SKOLNIK SIBLING QUIZ: Theme - Guess the Theme1. Which footy team won the 2014 grand final?

2. How many drawn grand finals have there been?

3. Which teams have won the most premierships?

4. What is the Norm Smith medal awarded in the grand final?

5. Which year was the AFL grand final first at the MCG?

**Please contact one of the Szkolnlik’s if you think you know the answer, and you’ll get a shout out in the first Kesher of 2020!

ELAD AND JAKES TOP ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO COOL OFF1. Put ice in your shoes

2. Let your dog lick and then breath on your face

3. Think cold thoughts

4. Lie down on a stone floor

5. Play with the emergency fire hose

DOG OF THE WEEK BY SAMMY PANETH AND JASON BERNSTEINTHE PANETH’S DOG:

Names/Nicknames: Ry Ry

Favourite Food: Schmackos

Funny Story: Any time the front door is open I take myself for a little stroll and then come home after a while.

Favourite Toy: my blue pac-man ghost

Favourite Family Member: I’m a mummy’s boy

20

בס׳׳ד

21

בס׳׳ד

בס’’ד

DATES FOR THE 2020 BAT MITZVAH PROGRAM

Sessions will be held in the Mizrachi Midrasha (81 Balaclava Rd)Sundays 6:30pm - 7:30pm

FEB09

FEB16

FEB23

MAR01

MAR08

MAR15

MAY16

Bat Mitzvah Seudah ShlishitShabbat Parshat Behar Bechukotai שבת פרשת בהר בחוקותי

MAR22

MAR29

APR26

MAY03

LEARNING, EXPLORING AND EXPERIENCING WAYS TO CONNECT TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY

THE MIDRASHA’S BAT MITZVAH PROGRAM

LEARNING, EXPLORING AND EXPERIENCING WAYS TO CONNECT TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY

THE MIDRASHA’S BAT MITZVAH PROGRAM

בס’’ד

We are excited to announce MissMiz, the Midrasha’s Bat Mitzvah Program for 2020.

Your daughters will participate in a series of exciting sessions that aim to strengthen their love for Judaism, build their knowledge of Tanach and Halacha and connect with their Jewish roots and community.

For more information and to enroll please callAvital on 0423471992

COSTThe program costs $200 for Mizrachi Members and $250 for Non-Mizrachi Members- inclusive of materials.

DATESSee the attached calendarfor dates and time.

22

בס׳׳ד

Are you a past Yavneh student?

Please join our Facebook Group. Just search for: Leibler Yavneh College – Alumni.

Or click this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2481247715239846/

Being a member of the Leibler Yavneh College alumni group is a great way for you to stay engaged and communicate with alumni. Once you’re a member please invite all College alumni who you are connected with to join the groups.

The aim of the group is to:

• Arrange meetings and reunions

• Post alumni relevant news and events

CALLING ALL YAVNEH ALUMNI - LET’S CONNECT• Promote campaigns and projects

• Share job opportunities between alumni

• Gather feedback for College issues

• and much more!

It’s also a chance to highlight pathways for alumni to reconnect and contribute to the College through, volunteering, guest lecturing, mentoring, donating to endowments or scholarships, collaborating on projects and attending events.

See you on Facebook!

23

בס׳׳ד

Second hand uniform stock – current as at 12 December 2019 NOTE: CLOSED 24/12/19 TO 20/1/20

Sport T-shirt - $15 Size 4x1 6x1 ($10 as faded) 14x3 XXL x1 Sport shorts - $15 - NONE Sport tracksuit pants and jacket (old style) NOT TO BE WORN FROM 2020 BUT PLEASE donate via Stella or PM me and all will be sent to less privileged children via the Reagan Milstein Foundation https://www.rmf.world/ Sports Jumper/pants (new style) - NONE Sport skirt - $10 Size 6x2 10x1 14x1, Mx1 and NEW 14Yx1, 10x2 (adult), Lx2, Mx2 Sports Leggings - $5 6x1, 14x1 Bike shorts - $5 4x1, 6x2, 8x1 Jumpers - $20 7x2 8x1 9x4 10x2 14x1 vest 18x1(& 18x1 vest) 20x1 Winter jackets/coat $15 Size 8x1, 10x1, 12x5, 14x1, XSx1 Bags $25 Small (prim school) – x3 Large (secondary school) –x2 To purchase message Hayley Jaffe via Facebook Messenger or 0409 138 949

Girls summer dress - $20 Size 4Cx2 (1 unhemmed & 1 short) 6x1 & 6Cx3 8x1 & 8Cx1 10Cx1 Girls long sleeve shirts - $15 Size 4x7 6x9 8x12 (and 8x2 for $10 small marks) 10x1 AND Senior (with logo) 10x2 12x 9 (3 no darts/6 darts) Girls winter tunic - $25 Size 4x2, 6x4 8x2, 10sx5 Girls winter skirt - $20 Size 10x2, 18x1, 22x1 Boys summer shorts - $15 Size 8x1 (wide waist) 10x3 18x4 (1 narrower & 1 with extra elastic) 32x2, 36x3 Boys summer shirt - $15 Size 4x2 ($10 each as marks) 10x1 Boys winter (long sleeve) shirts - $15 Size 3x2, 4x3 8x5 (2 for $10 - small marks) 10x3 (2 are $10 as small marks) 12x3, 14x4 (1 is $10 as marks) Sx1 Mx1 XXLx2 Boys Trousers - $20 Size 4x2 5x2 10x6 & 10x1(“Next” brand), 12x4 14x1, 16x3, 18x4, 20x1 30x1 (clip missing), 36x2 38x3, 40x2 [Also: 8x2 unhemmed]