Akiva School

Akiva School

School Ethos

WHO WE ARE

Akiva is a two-form entry Voluntary-Aided state primary school from Reception to Year 6.  We are situated in the expansive grounds of the Sternberg Centre for Judaism in Finchley.  Akiva has a strong sense of community, the pupils are incredibly proud of their school and we have an active and supportive parent and Governing Body.

Akiva is the only Progressive (Reform or Liberal) Jewish school in the UK.  Akiva is proud of its Progressive Jewish ethos which is a fundamental and integral part of the fabric of the school.  We model a Judaism that is egalitarian, reflective and creative, and which permeates all aspects of our lives.  We express this through joyful song, thoughtful discussion and exploring difficult questions.  Our Judaism reflects that of our stakeholder communities who founded the school and continue to guide our Jewish life.  We celebrate and engage with the racial and cultural diversity of the Akiva community and of the Jewish community worldwide. 

Akiva's Jewish Ethos runs alongside Akiva's School Ethos which is set out in detail here.

 

OUR SCHOOL VALUES

We are an inclusive community, teaching our children respect (kavod), kindness (chessed), resilience (chossen) and integrity (yosher).

VISION FOR OUR PUPILS

Our aim is for pupils to become embodied with the Akiva values and to leave primary school as successful, independent learners who are knowledgeable Jewish citizens and active participants in the wider community.

MISSION STATEMENT

Successful learning is an active partnership between children, their parents and teachers. At Akiva:

  • We see each child as an individual and provide a broad and dynamic Jewish and secular curriculum reflecting their needs.
  • We expect the highest standards of learning and teaching.
  • We provide a secure, nurturing and stimulating environment.
  • We work together to understand and realise each child’s full potential.
  • We embed Jewish Studies throughout the curriculum, enhancing a positive, confident, Jewish identity.
  • We teach our children to value being active participants in the wider community.
  • We prepare our children to meet the challenges of a changing world.
  • We teach our children to value all members of the school community and treat each other with kindness.

 

BRITISH VALUES

Akiva is committed to serving its community. We recognise the multi-cultural, multi-faith and ever-changing nature of the United Kingdom. We understand the vital role that we have in ensuring that groups and individuals in the school are not subjected to intimidation or radicalisation by those wishing to unduly or illegally, influence them.

We follow equal opportunities guidance which guarantees that there will be no discrimination against any individual or group, regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, political or financial status, or similar. We are dedicated to preparing Akiva children for their adult life beyond the formal, examined curriculum and ensuring that we promote and reinforce British Values to all our pupils.  For more information click here

 

ABOUT RABBI AKIVA

Akiva School takes its name from the 2nd century scholar Rabbi Akiva and our ethos reflects his philosophy and teachings which include humility, kindness, love of Torah, caring, loyalty and forgiveness. Our pupils reflect the ethos of the school through a love of, pride and confidence in all aspects of their Judaism. This is expressed through interpersonal relationships; regard for each other, the school community and wider society. They are able to embrace the values of Progressive Judaism, its centrality being egalitarianism and inclusivity. They are active, young responsible citizens; embracing the true meaning of Tikkun Olam (‘Repairing the World’) and Sh’mira Hateva (‘Caring for Our world’).

Learn more about Rabbi Akiva (Wikipedia link).