Latest News

Mazal tov - Premier's VCE Award

We are bursting with pride for our Year 12 student, Teige Cordiner, who received a Premier's Award yesterday. These awards "recognise students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in VCE (in 2022)."

Teige's award recognised excellence in his VCE Subject Applied Computing Software Development which he completed in Year 11. He was one of only three students statewide who were recognised with an award in this subject. Heath McGregor who was Teige's teacher in this subject said that "Teige's humility, outstanding academic ability across a range of subjects and his love of performing arts is inspirational". Mazal Tov Teige!

28
JUL

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Year Levels: 11, 12

Insights: Preserving Israel's character

Dear Community,

In our School Vision we state that we aspire for our students to develop “a close and meaningful relationship with the land and State of Israel”. Balancing the building of a sense of identification, affinity and love of Israel with an age and developmentally-appropriate analysis of Israel’s complexities and nuances can prove challenging. To what extent is it reasonable for us to critique the policies and actions of Israel’s government?

When I discuss this with students, I run through an exercise. I ask them to close their eyes and visualise the person or people that love them the most in the world. Then I ask them to visualise those that criticise them the most. Finally, I ask how many of them are the same people. Invariably, for the vast majority, they are.

When we truly love someone we aspire for them to be their best self. We care deeply about their values and actions and try t

28
JUL

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Commemorating Tisha B'Av

We commemorated Tisha b'Av at our Magid campus on Thursday with a solemn and informative assembly run by our Year 12 Va'ad Yahadut (Jewish Life student leaders). As is our tradition, we sat on the floor. We heard Eicha (Lamentations), leyned beautifully by Geoff Garber. We were reminded not only of the destruction of the First and Second Temples, we also remembered the deportation of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto in 1942, the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492, and the banishing of Jews from England in 1290, all of which occurred on Tisha B'Av.

Nana sang the Psalm By the Rivers of Babylon as we marked these expulsions together.

We then heard from members of our school community who come from diasporic communities throughout Spain and the Middle East (Sephardi and Mizrachi communities). Mizrachi communities in particular date back to the exiles following the Second and even the First Temples.

28
JUL

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A brilliant night of Artivism

Last night our Year 9 students showcased their incredible creative responses to current events at Artivism, raising money for The Big Issue's Street Soccer program. The RMC was transformed into a festival space with music, fairy lights and food. Please click here to see some photos from the evening.

Families ate food made by students, bid on the amazing pieces at our student art exhibition, bought student-made merchandise including slogan t-shirts, key rings with uplifting messages, coasters and posters, and enjoyed a student-created playlist of political songs. During the main stage event, we heard from Tania Patston from The Big Issue who explained the many programs her organisation leads to help address homelessness. Our slam poets wowed us with

28
JUL

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Year Levels: 9

Ruach throughout our ELC

Ruach (wind in Hebrew) is air in motion. It is produced by the uneven heating of the earth’s surface by the sun. Two factors are necessary to specify wind: speed and direction. This movement of air is what makes the ruach blow.

As we continue to explore the weather, this week was all about Ruach.

Using play-based activities as blowing feathers (Notzot in Hebrew) on our palms, blowing through straws to move pompons and playing with a parachute. The children are building on their executive function skills, especially self regulation, by learning to take turns and participate in each lesson. It is wonderful to watch the children grow in confidence to use Hebrew language with increasing fluency.

Shiri Peres

Hebrew Teacher

28
JUL

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Year Levels: K

Oh fair Juliet and Romeo

VCE Theatre Studies students and Year 9 Drama students recently attended an evening performance of Romeo and Juliet by Bell Shakespeare, at the Fairfax Studio. One of the supervising staff (Lachlan Mackay) even made a cameo appearance in the production during the banquet scene.

The production offered students wonderful insights into how Shakespearean texts can be interpreted for a modern audience. The direction, design and performances were of a considerably high standard and will offer our students rich opportunities for analysis and evaluation.

Eli Erez

Head Of Performing Arts

27
JUL

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Year Levels: 9, 11, 12

Welcome our Israeli Madrichim!

We are thrilled to welcome three remarkable Israeli Madrichim - Noya Kislanski, Ron Kopler, and Shahaf Palas - to our school community this term. Their arrival has already left a significant impact as they passionately lead Jewish experiential and Hebrew classes as well as the Nitzan Kickstart program, enriching our understanding of Israel's vibrant culture and history. With their valuable insights, they have fostered a deeper connection to Israel among students.

Throughout the term, Noya, Ron, and Shahaf will remain integral members of our school, sharing their knowledge and experiences with enthusiasm. They will spend time at the Junior School and the ELC, introducing our young learners to the wonders of Israel and weaving personal stories to create lasting connections.

Their presence has ignited a newfound enthusiasm for learning and embracing cultural diversity within our community. We extend our gratitude to these Madrichim for t

27
JUL

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Our Soccer Champs!

Our Years 5/6 boys continued their amazing run in sport this year as they took on the best soccer teams in all of the Beachside Divisions.

Please click here to see some images from the day. In Game One the boys were extremely nervous, not knowing what to expect from this high level competition and after 5 minutes of play in the first game against St Joseph's College their confidence grew as they scored the first of many goals for the day. Three goals later the first game was in the books with KDS winning 4-0. Game Two was much closer and after scoring first against St Michael's expectations were high. Late in the second half, St Michael's equalized and in time on KDS scored the winning goal 2-1, moving the team into the semi finals.

27
JUL

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Year Levels: 5, 6

VCE History Trip to Cinema a Total Blast

On Wednesday, the VCE Modern History class embarked on an explosive journey to the Como Cinema for a screening of the film Oppenheimer. With anticipation sparking like fission reactions, the students eagerly settled into their seats, ready to dive into the dramatic history of the Manhattan Project and the enigmatic figure of J. Robert Oppenheimer.

Riveted by the film's engaging narrative, the class explored the ethical dilemmas and far-reaching consequences of the atom bomb's creation.

The trip was a fusion of fun and education, igniting curiosity and inspiring critical thinking. With newfound knowledge, the class emerged, their minds enriched and ready to make their own explosive impact on the world. It was a truly unforgettable atomic adventure.

Ayal Nathan

Humanities Learning Area Leader

26
JUL

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Year Levels: 10, 11

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Year 8 English students had a cold winter morning English lesson transformed into a Midsummer Night as the Australian Shakespeare Company presented excerpts from one of Shakespeare's most dreamy productions. Please click here to see some images from the incursion. The students were willing volunteers to assist the actors in bringing well-known scenes such as Titania's awakening before Nick Bottom and the delights of the Pyramus and Thisbe Pantomine.

The rousing applause at the finale allayed Puck's fears that any students might have slumbered 'while the visions did appear'.

Julie Shields

English Learning Area Leader Yrs 6-12

26
JUL

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Year Levels: 8

Our beautiful ART by KiDS

Thank you to all of the students from ELC to Year 5 who produced amazing designs for the ART by KiDS fundraising project. Families purchased their child’s unique artwork printed on cards, notebooks, tea towels, pillow cases and more. All purchases from the ART by KiDS program raise money for the KDSPA to help fund future projects to benefit all KDS students. Thank you to parent volunteer Jacqui Dubs for coordinating this project.

26
JUL

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Year Levels: K, P, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Off to the Mikolot National Finals!

We have future global communicators in our midst! Livia Lazarow, Year 11, was one of two Victorian State finalists at last week's Mikolot Public Speaking Competition. This national opportunity promotes "greater collaboration among Jewish schools, cultivates better public speaking skills among students" and encourages expression of Jewish voices in the modern world. Livia now qualifies for the National Finals to be held later this term in Sydney. Her prepared topic on the value of life in Judaism was exceptional. Mazal Tov Livia and Kiera Edelstein (Year 10), for participating in the State Finals! We wish Liv b'hatzlacha in the upcoming national final!

25
JUL

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Year Levels: 10, 11

A beautiful Hanhagah-led Shabbat

The Senior School Shabbat event last week was expertly organized by the Va'adat Yahadut (Jewish Life committee) of Hanhagah. The memorable gathering brought Year 10-12 students together, fostering meaningful connections through a delightful Kababalat Shabbat and Maariv service. Following the T'filah, a scrumptious dinner and engaging games further strengthened the bonds among attendees. The event not only upheld cherished customs but also provided a wonderful opportunity for the Senior School to unite and embrace the joyous Shabbat spirit as a close-knit community. The night left hearts warmed and memories cherished, fostering a stronger sense of belonging for all.

Yoel Benn

Coordinator Jewish Experiential Education (Sr)

24
JUL

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Year Levels: 10, 11, 12

Events

What's on at Kedem

(Event finishes 04/08/2023)

Next Saturday 5 August Kedem will host their Shabbat morning service at KDS. Then on 19 August, there will be a Minchah service, also at KDS. Finally, on 26 August, Kedem will host their Service for the Soul. Please see the flyer attached for more information.
Shabbat shalom

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Discover Vienna in Melbourne with the Friends of KDS

(Event finishes 01/09/2023)

The Friends of KDS hope you’ll join us for a bespoke guided tour of the: Duldig Studio museum + sculpture garden.
92 Burke Road, Malvern East
On: Wednesday 6 September
Time: 10am - 12noon
Having left their life in Vienna behind, the Duldig family tried to recreate a piece of Vienna in their Melbourne home. The Duldig Studio as it stands today has been left intact by the Duldig family and highlights the resilience, talent and ingenuity of these Austrian-Australian artists.

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PJV Blood Drive - this Sunday

(Event finishes 04/08/2023)

Do a mitzvah by donating blood. One donation can save up to three lives.
Sunday, 30 July - from 2.30pm at the Lifeblood Caulfield Donor Centre
Followed by yummy food, drinks and schmoozing.

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Book launch: Judaism in the Digital Age

(Event finishes 11/08/2023)

The PJV presents the launch of Danny Schiff's new book, Judaism in the Digital Age.
Please join Danny Schiff in person as he speaks about his book, as well as providing an update on what's currently happening in Israel.
Sunday 20 August, 5 - 6:30pm.
At The King David School's Magid campus.
Please see the attached PDF for more information.

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MJBW Presents: An evening with Jonathan Seidler

(Event finishes 04/08/2023)

Melbourne Jewish Book Week is opening their Schools’ Program to the public for one special evening. On Monday 31 July at 7:30pm, Join Chanie Stock, Wellbeing Coordinator at The King David School in conversation with Jonathan Seidler, author and freelance journalist, as he discusses his memoir It’s a Shame About Ray.
This memoir is a deeply personal account of family, love and the power of music. The discussion will address issues of mental health and family trauma/suicide.
Please click here to book.

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Membership of TBI for KDS Families

(Event finishes 29/09/2023)

TBI offers KDS families a 50% discount on their membership fees, and KDS reduces tuition fees equivalent to 50% of TBI membership fees, making TBI membership essentially free for KDS families! (KDS families who are staff at KDS also receive a 50% discount from TBI) For more information, please call TBI on 9510 1488 or email info@tbi.org.au.

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