An alternative Jewish school for Melbourne

“Are we raising joyous, wise and courageous children?” That was the question posed to parents during a recent information night for a new alternative Jewish school planned for Melbourne. More than 20 children are already enrolled for the school, which plans to open next year in St Kilda East.

Beit Hillel Community School will be different from other Australian Jewish schools in several ways. There will be no uniforms, barely any screens, and weekly “Workshop Wednesdays” with extra-curricular classes and excursions. There will be a strong emphasis on self-led learning and the outdoors.

Founders Adam Hyman and Elinor Hasenfratz are confident they will deliver rigorous education, holistic development, and a joyful school environment for students and parents alike.

Inspired by their varied experiences working across different schools, inside and outside the Jewish community, the pair wanted to combine the alternative education model with a strong connection to Jewish identity.

Named after Rabbi Hillel, the new school aims to instil his virtues of respect, community, and striving for wisdom. “His teachings are very peace-focused,” Hyman said. “They're very much about fraternity, community building, love for your fellow Jew, love for your fellow person, and a love of study and learning.”

Beit Hillel’s curriculum takes a “back to basics” approach, focusing on fundamental learning skills. There will be almost no screen time, in favour of students developing their literacy, numeracy, penmanship and more, without becoming overly reliant on technology. Lessons will be interactive, with Hyman and Hasenfratz teaching classes hands-on, in addition to running the school.