Chief Rabbi welcomes graduation of first cohort of Ma’ayanot
On June 6th 2018, ten women graduated from the Chief Rabbi’s Ma’ayan Programme. The course is an in-depth programme, established to provide knowledgeable and approachable female educators, for Jewish communities across the UK.
The ceremony was hosted by the Chief Rabbi in his home. The graduates were joined by their families and close friends and each were presented with personalised certificates. Each one, uniquely designed by artist, Debbi Ifield.
The course educators were the Dayanim of the London Beth Din, the Chief Rabbi himself, pedagogic experts from around the world and academics from University College London’s Institute for Women’s Health.
The course consisted of a detailed curriculum covering the laws of Taharat Mishpacha (family purity) and women’s health issues. It also included training to become community educators at a high level.
Speaking after the graduation ceremony, the Chief Rabbi said:
“There are many women in our communities who are thirsting for greater knowledge and understanding of Torah. The graduation of our Ma’ayanot, who are of such outstanding quality, represents a watershed moment, raising the bar for women’s education and Torah observance in our community.”
Ma’ayan Jacqueline Feldman spoke on behalf of the graduates and said:
“This programme has educated us to support women of our communities in their lives and their learning. I want to thank the Chief Rabbi for his leadership and vision and for believing in the importance of having women who are trained in Halacha, Medical understanding and education at the heart of our communities.”
