Class of 2023 by Emanuel_School_Media

Mazal Tov!

YEAR

CELEBRATING HSC SUCCESS FOR 2023 Mazal tov to the Class of 2023 on their strong HSC results. In addition to their commendable academic achievements, I am very proud of this cohort’s diligence, resilience, and their significant and positive contribution to the culture of our School.

List: Jesse Carpenter, Ma’ayan Granot, Ella Hart, Joshua Leslie, Arielle Melamed and Jake Newfield. Congratulations to Tess Endrey, Ma’ayan Granot, Ruby Miller and Scott Reuveny, for their nominations for the OnSTAGE HSC Drama Showcase and Zoe Nebenzahl and Jamie Schneider for the ENCORE HSC Music Showcase.

We are a vibrant community of learners, where our educators are much more than teachers; they are mentors, inspirers, and unwavering supporters. We are deeply thankful for the pivotal role they play in equipping our students for the rigours of independent study and the dynamic challenges of the future workplace. Their dedication to nurturing both the personal wellbeing and academic progress of our students is a cornerstone of our community and will have a lasting impact on our graduates as they embark on exciting new chapters in their lives.

As we remind our families each year, the annually published school rankings, often referred to as ‘league tables,’ only tell part of the story. They focus solely on the percentage of top-tier academic performances and do not capture the full breadth of our graduates’ attributes, values, and personal accomplishments. Such rankings can unwittingly prompt schools to prioritise scores over student wellbeing, pressuring some to step back from their senior studies.

There is much to celebrate that goes beyond individual success. We congratulate the teachers and students of those subjects that achieved consistently strong results this year: Top Performing Subject Cohorts (Difference between School and State average) Subject

% Band 6 (Emanuel)

% Band 6 (State)

Drama

Modern History

History Extension

Music 1

Visual Arts

Legal Studies

PDHPE

Mathematics Advanced

Ancient History

Physics

Two of our students were recognised on the HSC Top Achievers List: congratulations to Ella Engler (5th in Modern Hebrew Continuers) and Ashley Goldman (17th in Legal Studies). Mazal tov to Arielle Melamed whose History Extension Major Work was recognised in the Top 10 of the State. A special mention also to those students included on the All-round Achievers

At Emanuel, however, we take a different approach. Our commitment is to the holistic development of each student. We value and support every step of their educational journey, celebrating achievements in all forms: academic, artistic, athletic, and community service, to name a few. Our focus remains steadfast on helping each student reach their personal best, in an environment that fosters growth, learning, and resilience. Some of our students have battled with and overcome significant personal challenges in their final years of school, and we are proud to have supported them in successfully completing their High School journey. We also recognise the hard work and dedication all our students demonstrate year after year, and we invite you to join us in celebrating every student’s unique path to success. Our hopes for the Class of 2023 are encapsulated in the blessing given at their Graduation Ceremony: May you live your life well, bring honour to your families, your school and to God. May you be kind-hearted, compassionate and proactive young men and women.

May you love your family and care for your community, as well as having eyes and hearts that are global… and we hope to hear many stories of your adventures in years to come. As Emanuel alumni, they graduate equipped to be the best that they can be and to make a difference for good, in their Jewish and broader communities. Andrew Watt Principal

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS 3

OUR TOP RESULTS at a glance Overall State Ranking

Non-selective Co-educational Schools State Ranking:

ATAR 90+

32%

47% of students achieved a Band 6

ATAR 95+

17%

38% of students achieved all Bands 5 and 6

HSC SHOWCASES The best of the best

OnSTAGE

Encore

MA’AYAN GRANOT (Behind the Wheel) Individual Performance (nominated)

JAMIE SCHNEIDER Individual Performance (nominated)

RUBY MILLER (Falling) Individual Performance (nominated) SCOTT REUVENY (Fine Young Men) Individual Performance (nominated) TESS ENDREY, MA’AYAN GRANOT, RUBY MILLER AND SCOTT REUVENY Group Performance of The Crown (nominated)

ZOE NEBENZAHL Individual Performance (nominated)

11th

ATAR 98+

OUR TOP ACHIEVERS Arielle Melamed

99.65

Joshua Leslie

99.55

Dan Blecher

99.10

Jake Newfield

98.65

Jesse Carpenter

98.30

Ella Hart

98.25

Ashley Goldman

98.20

Ma’ayan Granot

97.50

Ruby Miller

97.50

DISTINGUISHED ACCELERANTS (Band 6/E4) Mathematics Advanced and Mathematics Extension 1 Tamarah Aaron Jesse Barel

Jack Goldberg

Joshua Gordon

Aiden Kanevsky Elise Kitchener

Oren Levin-Kahn Yael Rembach

Jasper Selinger

DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVERS ARIELLE MELAMED ATAR 99.65

2023 DUX

JOSHUA LESLIE ATAR 99.55

PROXIME ACCESSIT

RUBY GRYNBERG AND ADAM ROTHSCHILD

MENSCHES OF THE YEAR

Band 6/E4 ALL-ROUND ACHIEVERS achieved for 10 or more units

Arielle Melamed ATAR 99.65

Joshua Leslie ATAR 99.55

Dan Blecher ATAR 99.10

Jake Newfield ATAR 98.65

14%

Commerce/ Business

12%

Communications and Media

Law

Ella Hart ATAR 98.25

• Archaeology

• Molecular Biotechnology

• CommunicationsJournalism

• Music and Sound Design • Nursing

• Community Services

10%

EARLY OFFERS

Sports

Arts

10%

Psychology

Social Science

Percentage of the cohort of 77 who received early offers

EARLY OFFERS* *These statistics are correct as of date of publication.

36.4% UTS

• Paramedicine • Psychology • Social and Political

• Data Science

Science

• Engineering

• Social Work

• Film

• Speech and Hearing

• Fine Arts

Therapy

• Game Design and Development

• Sports and Exercise

• International Relations

Engineering

124

• Creative Intelligence and Innovation • Criminology

12%

Ma’ayan Granot ATAR 97.50

INTERESTING AND DIVERSE CAREERS

Science

16%

Jesse Carpenter ATAR 98.30

Science

• Law

• Statistics

• Medicine

• Teaching

33.6% Macquarie**

17.3% ANU

12.7% Other

** Leaders and Achievers based on Year 11 marks, and commitment and contribution to school life and the community

CLASS OF 2023

CLASS OF 2023 DAN BLECHER

Work hard, play harder.

Year 12 Prizes for the Best Student in Mathematics, Mathematics Extension 2, Physics, Software Design & Development and Academic Excellence. I began my journey at Emanuel School in Year 5, and when I think of the School, the first things that come to mind are “a home away from home” and a place where I’ve built lasting friendships. I hope to be recognised for my contributions to Jewish life within the school community with Friday ruach being a highlight, giving me the opportunity to dance and celebrate the end of the week. I enjoy the challenge of Mathematics. Learning the concepts that underpin the subject and subsequently feeling the satisfaction of reaching the end of an interesting mathematical problem is so satisfying. Out of the classroom I enjoy Sport, and inter-school sport will always be a favourite as it allowed me to connect with people from other schools. My favourite memory of my time at Emanuel would be the hikes that I completed as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award while my proudest achievement was playing Nationals chess in Melbourne.

In a job interview, I would describe myself as adventurous, generous and resourceful. I’d mention my academic achievements and various projects I’ve completed. These experiences showcase my commitment, dedication, and ability to take on challenging tasks and see them through to completion. After a gap year, I plan on going to university to study Science, Maths or Engineering. My teachers have helped me develop strong skills in managing heavy workloads as well as teamwork and these will certainly come in handy when studying and in my future career.

Dan’s teachers and friends said: Dan is resourceful, methodical and intelligent. He’s also a smart, funny and unique person, who is also very approachable.

CLASS OF 2023

Lord of the Flies 2022

Photo: Ofer Levy

CLASS OF 2023 NATHAN BOGNAR

Emanuel School: Where learning ignites endless possibilities.

Emanuel School has been a place of discovery and growth, where education has opened doors to countless opportunities for me. When I think of my time here, the first thing that comes to mind is a close-knit community that you can trust. It’s a place where you can truly feel a sense of belonging, where students and staff are supportive and caring. I’d choose the words kind, passionate and determined to describe myself. These qualities have helped me navigate challenges and seize opportunities during my time at Emanuel. The Year 11 Hospitality trip opened new horizons for me, allowing me to gain valuable skills and insights into the industry. It’s not surprising that Hospitality is my favourite subject as it is practical and I learned so much. One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced during my schooling was staying focused and determined during lockdown and online learning. The shift from traditional classroom learning to virtual education was challenging, but it taught me resilience, adaptability, and self-discipline. It was a period when staying motivated and maintaining a strong work ethic were crucial.

Friday Shabbatot were always full of energy and left us with so much positive energy for the rest of the day. I also enjoyed all the School Carnivals which were so much fun and provided a break from regular schoolwork. My favourite memory at school was when I beat my English teacher at the daily Wordle! Emanuel has equipped me with so many skills and opportunities that will undoubtedly set me up for my next chapter in life. Beyond the syllabus, I have learned how to be a better person in all aspects of my life. In a job interview, I would proudly mention my achievement of obtaining a Certificate II in Hospitality and the effort I put into my Year 10 Business project where we rebranded a canteen menu item. My future plans involve travel and studying to become a nurse. It’s a path that aligns with my passion for helping others, and I’m excited to take the next steps towards this fulfilling career.

Nathan’s teachers and friends said: Nathan has a genuine interest and passion for helping people. This is reflected in the way he conducted himself throughout school. He has always recognised the importance of having a job outside of school and he has a clear vision of his direction in life. He can always be turned to for support as well as a good laugh.

CLASS OF 2023

LEADERSHIP IS A JOURNEY Our leadership journey has been greatly influenced The Emanuel student body has been a clear example by the student leaders we’ve encountered in our of a community coming together to create change formative years. They’ve been important role models as seen through all of the student-driven initiatives for us, embodying the values and skills required to be – a truly unique and special part of leadership at effective leaders. We have learned what leadership Emanuel. There have been initiatives that focus on means now that we have participated in Emanuel’s social justice and broadening community awareness many programs including Hadracha, such as the Night of Dangerous Peer Support, the Va’ad system and Discourse, White Ribbon Day, RUOK? attending events that facilitate youthDay, SRC fundraisers and action from leadership discussions. Community Problem Solving Groups. It is one thing to lead up the Along with these have been events front, but to us, what is most We used to always think that school planned and run by students with fulfilling, is leadership from leadership meant creating one big behind and within the scenes the intent to create an atmosphere life-changing event, that will affect the of “Emanuel magic” and ruach that – something our School entire school, but upon actually being everyone knows so well. These include emphasises through its in the position, we’ve found that having extensive leadership system. High School Shabbatot, the Cabaret, small, achievable goals have made Inter-House sporting, musical and more difference than we anticipated. visual arts competitions and more. Some of these goals have included building connections between Year The culmination of our leadership levels, encouraging students to use their voices to experience has taught us that whether you have a express their passions, and bringing enthusiasm to titled leadership position or not, you should realise that events, all working towards the ‘big goal’ of amplifying you are a leader to someone else. You could be the the school atmosphere to be a positive and inclusive person a younger student looks up to because your environment for all. passions align with theirs (as we did with our leaders) and that is what we believe is the most important As Head Madrichim, we have learned skills and have form of leadership – knowing that in a way, everyone had to overcome many obstacles, as leaders often do. should focus on leading from within, as a collective Ultimately we believe that leadership comes down to and by example. the drive and motivation that results from the things one is passionate about. By Ruby Brody and Coby New Head Madrichim (2022-2023)

CLASS OF 2023 RUBY BRODY Head Madricha

The things that challenge you are invitations to unlock things about yourself that you may have never known.

Year 12 Prize for Communal Service As I look back on my time at Emanuel School, the journey has been marked by personal growth, memorable experiences, and a strong sense of community. I started school here in Year 8, and the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Emanuel School is ruach. The spirit and energy that permeates the School creates a vibrant and welcoming environment, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness. Chavayah is my stand-out memory. I loved every facet – the rich learning that came from being culturally immersed in Israeli life, living with my peers for four weeks, and being able to reflect on my own Jewish identity. My second favourite memory was the many times that our Year group was able to spend quality time together, specifically throughout the past year. I feel like we have bonded so much, and I love the dynamic that has developed. My favourite school event is definitely House Music because it perfectly captures the essence of Emanuel. Whilst being under the guise of a competition, in reality, the event allows for so much Inter-House and Year group collaboration during the process and the actual event. I love seeing how everyone is so supportive of each other and cheers for opposing Houses, displaying true Emanuel ruach. I want to be remembered as someone who always ‘gave it their all’. I want people to remember that I was running in every race at the Carnivals and singing my heart out at House Music. While my favourite subject changes from day to day, I love Chemistry. Although it’s definitely my most difficult subject, I love the content that we learn, and making connections between molecules and how they apply to the wider world.

Emanuel does very well at giving a lot of freedom to students to run student-led initiatives and events. Since so much of school life is student-led, in the Va’ad system I’ve learnt essential communication skills, and when organising events, I’ve learnt to be flexible and collaborative. All of these skills will undoubtedly benefit me in the future. Outside of the syllabus, Emanuel has helped me discover important values through the many Jewish life activities. Tikkun Olam (Healing the World) and being a Dugma Ishit (Leader by Example) have been the focal point of programs like Mini Mach, Ayekah and the Nitzavim Seminar. Learning about these values have been very important for me and helped me understand how to be a good person, interact with others and how to live my life with purpose. I am particularly proud of being elected as Head Madricha, my role as a Peer Support Leader, and my participation in the Future Problem-Solving competition, where Eden Levit and I placed first, nationally. Looking ahead, my plans for the next few years are uncertain. While I’m interested in travelling, I’m not sure if that will be my next step. My focus may shift as I explore opportunities for further education or other experiences that come my way.

Ruby’s teachers and friends said: Ruby is a kind and generous leader who has always been willing to help others. She embodies all the characteristics of a mensch. Ruby is reliable, responsible, and approachable. She is also fun and upbeat, always up for a good laugh and exudes integrity.

CLASS OF 2023 JESSE CARPENTER

Emanuel School is about embracing growth and experience, while thriving in a nurturing community.

Year 12 Prizes for Chemistry, English Extension 2, Academic Excellence and Emanuel Writer of the Year Whilst my greatest challenge has been dealing with stress and how to manage my own expectations, I’m grateful for the amazing and deep education that I have received at Emanuel. I feel like I have so much ahead of me due to the opportunities I’ve had. I’ve really had space to discover myself, to experience personal growth and make meaningful connections. I’m really excited for the next chapter in my life, and for who I become after the foundation I’ve built. Emanuel School’s motto, Mind Spirit Being, is certainly lived and experienced here. My favourite subject was English Extension because of the freedom and opportunity for independent learning in an area I am passionate about. I have finished the course with a Major Work I’m really proud of. Beyond the syllabus, I’ve learned to think critically and deeply, apply myself in a safe environment, and develop as a thinker and learner. My top three highlights of my time at Emanuel include eating pomelos with friends on Chavayah, doing ‘primal animalistic yoga’ on Year 12 camp, and witnessing my History teacher saving a fellow student’s life using the Heimlich manoeuvre! I’m really proud of who I’ve become inside and outside of school. I like to think of myself more qualitatively than quantitatively, and even though I am proud of tangible achievements, of receiving the Emanuel Writer of the Year Award, and the Principal’s

Award, I consider my development as a thinker and learner more of an achievement. I think that in and outside of school I have developed a wide range of skills, in writing and in cooking, in mathematics and in looking after plants, and more than all of that, I have gained an attitude to try and to fail and to perfect, and the knowledge that where I am right now is only the beginning. Now that school is behind me, I need a little break, just a week or two to do nothing before I start working, and then I want to go on a gap year. I want to travel with my friends and alone, and really see what is out there, to learn more and learn practically. I want to go to university after that, maybe here or maybe elsewhere. Right now, I am torn between studying Law, English Literature, Philosophy or Mathematics, so I hope I find some direction on my gap year. I do know I want to study further and eventually pursue a PhD. I want to write a book, I’m not sure what about yet, but I’m sure I’ll find something! I want to live overseas, to go on exchange to Germany or Mexico, and to live with lots of different people and places, and to find out more about myself.

Jesse’s teachers and friends said: Jesse is an extremely perceptive and intelligent person who always seeks to treat people with genuine kindness. He has a fantastic sense of humour that he applies to any situation, even during Chemistry lessons!

CLASS OF 2023

CLASS OF 2023 TESS ENDREY House Madricha Rabin

Emanuel School is a place where I have never stopped growing.

Year 12 Prizes for Geography and Community Service Nominated for OnSTAGE Group Performance (The Crown) Looking back on my time at Emanuel, three significant experiences stand out. Top of the list would be Chavayah which was truly remarkable. Although our Year group faced challenges due to COVID, we were lucky to go on Chavayah in Year 12. This experience allowed us to connect and appreciate our Year group in unique ways, especially since we knew our time together was limited. It deepened my appreciation for Israel’s beauty and the privilege of exploring it with my friends. A close second would be serving as the Rabin House Madricha, which was a dream come true. I have always loved being involved in House events and winning as many House points as possible! I did not take my leadership role for granted and I think that my fellow House Madrich, Daniel Langman, and I successfully achieved our goal of putting Rabin back on track to its glory days before COVID. I loved every moment of being able to create a positive, fun but educational program each week for my fellow Rabinites. It really taught me the importance of leadership and helped me navigate my Year 12 experience. Lastly, being part of the school production of Lord of the Flies was a special experience. It was the first time that I had taken part in a High School production, and I enjoyed every moment of it. As a Drama student, I love being on stage, but working with a cast to pull off such a fantastic a show was an amazing experience. I felt as if I was part of something important, and I felt so proud of the effort everyone put into its success. In Year 4, I participated in a Torah trope reading competition. This experience ignited my passion for Judaism and even though I may not be as enthusiastic about reading the tropes now, I very much feel connected to my Judaism! This has continued through my love of Shabbat services, and celebrating Jewish festivals such as Pesach and Purim throughout High School.

Emanuel has helped me develop a strong passion for social action and social change, which was ignited when I learned about the charity organisation, Gennarosity Abroad from Genna Radnan, the charity’s Founder, Emanuel alumna and our previous School Nurse! Although the Kenyan trip I signed up to was unfortunately cancelled due to COVID, my passion for social change and advocacy continued to grow and led to me work on the Social Action Va’ad in Year 12. I’ve also learned the importance of seizing every opportunity. The school environment has been a perfect place to share and implement my passions and make a positive impact. Remember that you are never going to regret getting involved. You can make the most of any situation in front of you, school doesn’t have to be just for learning. Drama provided a creative space outside of the traditional classroom where I could fully express myself and improve my acting abilities. This subject has been crucial to my school experience. I am proud of my role as an advocate for Autism Awareness at school. I made a difference through speeches and events that benefited the community. Additionally, my experience as a House Captain taught me valuable lessons about leadership and the ability to influence change. I plan to spend my gap year on an Israel Program and then attend university to study a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Social Work.

Tess’s teachers and friends said: Tess is kind, hard-working, passionate, and always ready to get involved. She is dedicated to continuing volunteering and making a difference.

CLASS OF 2023

A PASSION FOR

SOCIAL CHANGE

I believe social change is not something that happens, it’s a reaction to a disturbance to one’s core. I think everyone has the ability to be a changemaker because there will always be a cause someone can be drawn to. I connect deeply with Autism Awareness as my sister has autism. I have seen first-hand the lack of understanding that exists and how it leads to so many misconceptions. I think it’s important for young people to find the causes they are passionate about, helping to create understanding and support in the community. I believe my generation is particularly passionate, driven and energetic. All these values linked with learning the ability to speak up can create the next generation of fearless leaders. Through the Social Action Va’ad, as well as establishing my own space in the School to talk about Autism Awareness, I have learned the importance of how one small thought can make a bigger difference than someone can realise. Establishing this mentality and values in today’s youth can lead to even bigger change that can shape us and help others for the rest of our lives. Within this context, the Social Action Va’ad has been such an important space for changemaking. Our group’s focus grew as we brainstormed the conversations we could start with our peers. We recognised the importance of raising awareness and teaching others about the profound effects that proactive social action can have. We supported White Ribbon Day over a full week, focusing on encouraging discussion and action around violence against women. We raised money with a plain clothes day and a sausage sizzle, and held the screening of a short film around the topic of incel-related gendered violence. We also created a pop-up second-hand clothing store, with communitydonated pre-loved clothes, which was a resounding success. All the proceeds were donated to the White Ribbon Foundation. On the last day we distributed white ribbons to all students and staff, to show support.

We supported Wear it Purple Day and World Pride. During Reconciliation Week we discussed the importance of the Uluru Statement of the Heart with younger students and older students learning about the importance of the referendum and how they could make an educated vote. This was done through Tutor group lessons and a lunchtime showing of a short film explaining and showing the extent of Indigenous incarceration in our country. Our final and largest event of the year was our Night of Dangerous Discourse, establishing a much-needed conversation on Australia’s relationship with Youth Justice. The issues surrounding how youth justice is managed in our country doesn’t surface in societal discussions enough, and we wanted to know more. We had an amazing group of panellists whose areas of expertise covered a wide range of perspectives of the justice system. One of the key take away messages was the importance of collaborating with communities affected by these issues, especially Indigenous communities, in order for our government and society to create systems that adequately address the root causes of juvenile crime. An important aspect of this is to provide resources to support the mental health and familial circumstances of many of these young people. While these are all issues that require actions beyond what most of us can do, the event highlighted the importance of engaging with pertinent social issues by listening to the voices of experts or those affected directly by the issue. Being a part of the Social Action Va’ad was an incredible opportunity to help further develop my passion for social change and the knowledge to help me make informed decisions that I can take into the world. By Tess Endry

CLASS OF 2023

CONNECTING VALUES The Emanuel School values have been integral to my educational experience and have significantly shaped my personal growth both as a student and now as a graduate. The School’s commitment to nurturing each student’s uniqueness creates an atmosphere where I have felt supported and encouraged. The countless hours spent in this environment is what makes Emanuel School truly exceptional. The love for and strength of community is deeply ingrained in the culture of Emanuel School. Be it the roaring energy of Friday morning ruach or the enthusiasm and spirit of House events, the Emanuel community is a special one. This became particularly clear to me when my cohort was given the opportunity to go on the Chavayah program at the end of Year 11, after having missed out due to COVID in Year 10. As we all stood in a circle outside our hotel in Jerusalem, holding hands and singing our favourite Havdallah tunes, I knew that the friendships we had built over our years together was unique. However, school can also be a challenging experience and having been through a slew of ups and downs throughout my nine years at Emanuel, the enduring support of my teachers and peers, in particular, my Tutor and Head of House, represent the genuine compassion ingrained within the ethos of Emanuel School.

The HSC presents a challenge that can come as quite a shock to many students, but the warmth and support of everyone at school allowed this difficult year to be a highlight of my school journey. I was constantly reassured that my experience, be it a high-or-lowlight, was OK, and beyond that I was encouraged to embrace and learn from them. It is with this support that I am able to leave school with a deeper appreciation of the perseverance and resilience which is required to succeed in life. Ultimately, these formative years of my life, which taught me the power of compassion, integrity and community, have allowed me to feel ready to embark on my journey into adulthood. I am truly grateful to have attended a school which genuinely embodies such important values. By Ashley Goldman

CLASS OF 2023 ASHLEY GOLDMAN

Emanuel encourages you to dig beneath the surface of who you are, providing you with many opportunities to uncover your passions.

Year 12 Prize for French Continuers I began my journey at Emanuel School in Year 4, and throughout my years here, the word “culture” comes to mind when I think of school. It’s the unique culture and sense of community that makes Emanuel so special. These three experiences stand out as highlights for me as I reflect over the years: Chavayah was a special trip that allowed my Year group to build strong relationships before entering Year 12, which was undoubtedly going to be a very trying year. Being in Israel with my peers took me quite far outside of my comfort zone and truthfully, I was quite reticent to go. However, I am extremely grateful for the experience as I found I learnt a lot about myself and my relationships which gave me a strong grounding with my peers as we entered Year 12. Being a Peer Support Leader in Year 11 was a highlight of my school experience as I was able to feel the tangible impact of student leadership. By building strong relationships with the Year 7 Tutor group as they started High School experience, I was able to understand the profound impact of student leadership, particularly on younger students. I am grateful that the bonds we created did not fade after our semester as Peer Support Leaders and for the fact that the program allows for older students to share the value of culture and community which Emanuel places such a strong emphasis on. Being a part of the Social Action Va’ad in Year 12 was an extremely rewarding experience as I found the opportunity to increase awareness of social issues a real privilege, particularly given that the Va’ad was heavily student-run. Moderating the Night of Dangerous Discourse was a highlight of this leadership experience as our chosen topic of youth justice is of particular interest to me and it was so fulfilling to see our hard work come to fruition.

One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced during my schooling has been maintaining a balance between my academic and personal life. I’ve made significant progress over the last five years, and I’m proud of my personal and academic growth. While it has been challenging at times, it has also motivated me to succeed. I hope to be remembered for my passion, enthusiasm, and contributions to the Year’s leadership team as a Nitzav (Upstander), even without an official title. I hope to be remembered for the passion and enthusiasm I brought to the events I helped run and for the contribution I made to the Year’s leadership team as a Nitzav. Beyond the syllabus, I’ve learned the importance of embracing discomfort. By pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself and others. My favourite subject was Legal Studies as I enjoyed critically delving into the intricacies of the legal system. My teacher’s enthusiasm was infectious, and she played a significant role in fostering my passion for the legal system. My plans for the next few years involve travel, specifically to New York, followed by university to study law, combined with social and political sciences. This educational path will equip me to work in social policy, aligning with my passion to create a positive change in society.

Ashley’s teachers and friends said: Ashley has great strength, tenacity and humility. He is a great friend to all, always looks out for the underdog and is funny, patient and trustworthy. His motivation, compassion and enthusiasm are noticed by those around him. Ashley is incredibly intelligent with the capacity to do amazing things with his life.

CLASS OF 2023

Participating in Shaun Micallef’s Brain Eisteddfod

CLASS OF 2023 MA’AYAN GRANOT House Madricha Meir

Emanuel has taught me that there’s so much more to life than just simply school – all the opportunities to meet different people, try new things and to grow as a person have taught me what’s really important beyond just the syllabus.

Year 12 Prizes for Meritorious Effort and Service to the Secondary School Nominated for OnSTAGE Individual Performance (Behind the Wheel) Nominated for OnSTAGE Group Performance (The Crown) I began my journey at Emanuel School in Year 6. I have absolutely loved my time here, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities that allowed me to grow as a student and as an individual. I hope to be remembered as someone who always happily participated in all aspects of school life. I am not afraid to talk and act on the things I am passionate about, such as speaking on International Women’s Day, running the Cut for Cancer, and the work I did with the Madrichim Body and the SRC. When in Israel on Chavayah, my friends and I ran a commemoration service on Har Herzl – the Mountain of Remembrance. We honoured the lives of fallen IDF soldiers and past Israeli Prime Ministers. When we returned to school, we ran a similar ceremony on Yom Hazikaron, using what we had learned and the experiences from our trip to Israel to create a meaningful ceremony for my cohort and other students back home.

This year Ruby Grynberg and I ran the Cut for Cancer fundraiser – something that hadn’t happened in a few years because of COVID. Organising and running this event was incredibly rewarding as it was something so important and meaningful to me. We were able to raise upwards of $15,000 and donated wigs for children suffering from cancer. I’ve lost two of my grandparents to cancer and being able to take something so sad and personal to me and flip it into a positive and impactful event is something I am incredibly proud of.

Ma’ayan’s teachers and friends said: Ma’ayan is hard-working and never fails to make her peers laugh. She is always dedicated to what she is doing and is both a creative and an academic. She is always open to connecting with others.

I have loved all the school musicals and plays because not only did they provide me with a creative outlet, it was also incredible to see how much talent we have at such a small school and how happy it made all the performers and the audience. Being a part of productions across High School was so rewarding and was a great way to meet students in other years.

CLASS OF 2023 DANIEL LANGMAN House Madrich Rabin

When I think of Emanuel, the first words that come to mind are bright and energetic.

Looking back on my many years at Emanuel, I will never forget Aeroplane Day in Year 1. Getting my ‘passport’ and ‘flying’ to Israel in the Emanuelequivalent of Business Class was so much fun for a seven-year-old! It’s no surprise that my favourite subject in High School was Drama because it allowed me to escape and express myself. I like to think that I was my Drama teacher’s favourite student! I loved watching the other Houses’ performances at House Music. They were so energetic, filled with passion and spirit. In Israel, learning about my Jewish heritage and feeling the deep connection to my Judaism was so meaningful. One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced was the transition to online classes during COVID, especially being away from my friends. Despite this experience, I would like to be remembered as a student who gave their all and brought light during stressful times.

I am particularly proud of raising over $2,000 by organising and participating in the World’s Greatest Shave as well as my roles as a House Captain, Peer Support Leader, member of the Chaggim Va’ad and my volunteer work for the Smith Family’s Student2Student reading program. Looking ahead, I plan to further my education and make the most of life. I’ve been involved in meaningful initiatives during my time at Emanuel, and I look forward to continuing to make a difference in the next chapter of my life.

Daniel’s teachers and friends said: Daniel has always been optimistic and easy-going, never failing to make his friends laugh and brighten a gloomy day.

CLASS OF 2023 JOSHUA LESLIE Proxime Accessit Duci

I am grateful for my teachers’ commitment to my success.

Year 12 Prizes for Economics, Legal Studies and Modern History The greatest challenge I faced during my school years was dealing with burnout and the stress of exams, while keeping the HSC in perspective and still dedicating time to my friends and family. I have developed the skill of committing myself to a task and working consistently to achieve my goals. This ability to self-motivate will be beneficial at university. I hope to be remembered for my passion for my Year 12 subjects and my sense of humour inside and outside the classroom. My favourite school event has to be Purim. Seeing all the creative costumes and feeling the general sense of joy throughout the whole school really made for a special day. While Purim focussed on joy, it was Yom HaShoah that has always been particularly memorable for me. It was always a moving and meaningful day, provoking a deep sense of remembrance while simultaneously directing our gaze towards the future – towards making the world we live in a better, more inclusive place for future generations.

My two favourite subjects were Modern History and Legal Studies. I really loved the course content of each subject and found myself enjoying class time and, sometimes, even studying for them! My favourite topic from Modern History was Conflict in the Pacific about the Pacific Theatre of WW2, and my favourite Legal Studies topic was Consumer Law, as it was so contemporary and relevant. I am particularly proud of my 99 HSC mark in accelerated Advanced Maths, reflecting my hard work in the subject. I’m also proud of my consistent focus and study across my other Year 12 subjects. Beyond the classroom, I’ve learned the importance of keeping friends close and never taking a fun moment for granted. I plan to head straight to university next year, both building upon and expanding beyond my HSC subjects with hard work and dedication.

Joshua’s teachers and friends said: Joshua can be described as bright and engaged. He offered articulated insights in every class and his passion for learning is admired by both his friends and teachers. He is a loyal friend who always tries to inject humour into any situation.

CLASS OF 2023

Sustainability Va’ad’s clothing drive

CLASS OF 2023

“ WE DON’T OWN PLANET EARTH;

WE BELONG TO IT…” As human beings, we rely on our planet for life, for survival. The land and sea provide us with the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the resources we use to build and sustain our societies. The intricate web of ecosystems on land and in the oceans play a fundamental role in supporting life on Earth.

Our School and Community’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the unwavering support and encouragement provided by our teachers at Emanuel. They consistently nurture and encourage students’ passion for sustainability through innovative educational initiatives and eco-friendly practices.

These natural environments provide a multitude of resources that shape our daily lives, fostering environments for human beings to form connections with one another. For this reason, the notion of living sustainably is so important for me, as well as Emanuel as a school and community. As our earth continues to degrade due to the dire effects of human-induced climate change, living sustainably has ultimately become more important than ever.

Throughout my final year at school, being a member of the Sustainability Va’ad has been incredibly rewarding. I am thankful for the chance to nurture my passion and eagerly anticipate witnessing the School’s ongoing positive engagement with climate initiatives. Wishing the next Sustainability Va’ad a future filled with green accomplishments. Just as Steve Irwin once said: “We don’t own the planet Earth; we belong to it. And we must share it with our wildlife”.

As I approached the senior years of my time at Emanuel, I had the privilege of being part of the Sustainability Va’ad. I strongly value and connect to the land and sea and was thrilled I was able to create sustainable changes and actions within my School and Community, alongside my Year 12 peers. This opportunity has allowed me to explore and develop my passion for sustainability and particularly climate change by taking action in the school environment.

By Ruby Grynberg

The Sustainability Va’ad, with help from Ms Starkey, made a substantial impact on sustainability at our School. We introduced Randwick Council’s Food Organics and Garden Organics compost bin, aiming to reduce our waste production, as well as raised awareness of the positive impacts of composting food. Our Va’ad also ran a hugely successful secondhand clothing drive, collecting clothing donations from students, donating excess clothing to various pre-loved clothing stores, and raising awareness of the effects of fast fashion on the earth.

CLASS OF 2023 EDEN LEVIT Madricha

Sometimes, when you feel as though you are not progressing at all – it is because you are exactly where you need to be.

Sportsperson of the Year 2023

I want to be remembered as the girl who always put her hand up to get involved in school life; who embodied Emanuel’s motto, Mind Spirit Being; and was never hesitant to go against the grain. My most memorable school experiences include the school sleepover because it was the most ‘coming-ofage-teenageesque’ I have ever felt and House Music in Year 12 where Meir won. The skills I’ve developed and opportunities I’ve been given, especially in extra-curricular sport, Future Problem Solving*, as well as being a Madricha, have equipped me with valuable leadership and organisational skills that I will use throughout my life. I would describe myself as passionate, driven and warm. These qualities have shaped my journey from Kornmehl to Year 12. Doing four units of English, developing my critical thinking, and enjoying the challenge of every class, have led to the subject to be my undeniable favourite. Any education (formal or otherwise) is what you make of it. The second you begin to perceive school as an obligation, rather than a privilege, is the second that you lose connection with your experiences. Of course, there are days when I kick rocks and complain about content, but I always try to reframe my frustrations in this light. I also feel that through competitive sport at

Emanuel such as athletics, football, futsal and netball, I have learnt the importance of good sportsmanship. I am particularly proud of my personal achievements, including being elected as a Madricha; captaining the Australian Maccabiah football team; winning national titles in athletics; receiving the 2022 and 2023 Emanuel Sportsperson of the Year Award; involvement in the Student Representative Council (SRC); Peer Support; participation in RewriteTheCulture and my casual employment roles outside of school. I will be considering universities in the USA, to pursue my athletic career on a scholarship. I’m interested in studying Law, Psychology, Communication, or International Relations.

Eden’s teachers and friends said: Eden is committed to do the best in whatever she puts her mind to. She’s a track-star, brilliant at team sports, has amazing leadership skills, is empathetic, loyal and genuine and has a great sense of humour. Eden has been awarded the prestigious Macquarie Leaders and Achievers Scholarship, the first Emanuel School student to do so. *Future Problem Solving is a non-profit educational program that organises academic competitions in which students apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to hypothetical future situations.

CLASS OF 2023

SUPPORT FOR SPORT Sport at Emanuel has been a definite highlight of my High School career. Gala Days included beach touch football, netball, Inter-House lunchtime competitions, bench-ball and dodgeball. It seemed that every week a new email would appear detailing a fun way to get active with friends. I consider sport to be an outlet to refresh my mind. During my HSC year, morning futsal training or afternoons at the track were fundamental in maintaining a balance. Some of my favourite memories of High School were the Futsal Gala Days where, filled by team spirit, we always seemed to do significantly better than expected. As our coach Aytek Genc would say: “Emanuel always seems to punch above its weight.” I don’t think any of us realised how significant our wins against regional sports schools really were. As a female athlete, I also believe it is important to note the encouragement of female inclusion in sport. It appeared that no matter the distance, bus driver Bruce would traverse any distance to find a suitable competition for our teams to enter. This attitude towards sport extended to Inter-House competitions where female students of all ages were encouraged to lace up their boots or pick up a bib. I have fond memories of my futsal team training with Emanuel’s male counterparts and maybe even skilling Coby New once or twice.

Throughout Year 12, I was also a member of the Sport Va’ad. The group organised several initiatives including an Inter-House Capture the Flag competition and the Lexi Bader Futsal Cup. The Lexi Bader Futsal Cup was an extremely significant event for our Year group as we were able to celebrate our peer and the sport he loved so dearly. Our aim for the Cup was to ensure longevity of the event so that it can continue in years to come despite new students never having met Lexi personally. We introduced a minute of silence before the event and also spoke about our Year group’s connection to Lexi at assembly. It was incredible to watch every event we organised come to fruition and the willingness of High School students to get involved. Similarly, the Sports department supported all of our endeavours. Leaving Emanuel I am sure that we will miss the structured opportunities that the School offered us and will remain empowered to continue to sign up, put ourselves out there and even try something new. By Eden Levit

CLASS OF 2023

CLASS OF 2023 MARIAH LEWY

Try everything, find what you are good at, and work towards that.

Year 12 Prize for Contribution to Sport My journey at Emanuel School began in Year K. When I think of school, the first word that comes to mind is “community”. Emanuel is a welcoming and accepting space that has allowed me to flourish. Three highlights of my time as an Emanuel student come to mind. The first is Chavayah. It was a whirlwind of enjoyment, filled with unforgettable moments, and spiritual and educational experiences. One of my favourite memories was waking up at 4.00 am to climb Masada – an experience that left a lasting impact on me. The second highlight would be House Music. I love music, singing and performing. To have a night dedicated to just that is incredible and so enjoyable. Year 10 Physical and Sport Science lessons were my favourite. We would go down to the beach for surfing sessions and enjoy delicious food afterwards! It was during this year that I made new friendships and discovered my growing interest in surfing. Jewish life at Emanuel has been meaningful to me and Ayekah in particular allowed me to connect with my Year group on a spiritual level and grow deeper friendships. I still remember the ‘Café D’ activity at Bronte Beach, where we sat in a group and answered a range of questions. I learned new things about my peers, shaped the way I view myself and gave me the opportunity to feel a greater sense of connection towards my new friendships. My favourite subject has always been Music because music and singing have been a part of my life before I was even able to speak. I get to do what I love, explore new styles of music, create my own music and perform. I have learned many things beyond the curriculum, including the importance of respect, working as hard as I can, setting achievable goals and rewarding myself for my accomplishments. These lessons have fuelled my motivation to achieve more.

In a hypothetical job interview I’d proudly mention several personal achievements. These include completing the Australian Music Examination Board Grade 8 Singing for Leisure Repertoire Exam with a High Distinction (A+); writing and recording my own songs in studios in the USA, Canada and Indonesia, and working with professionals instrumental in launching successful artists. I auditioned for the feature film Moana and so far have progressed to the second callback stage. I’ve also participated in the Celebrity Experience Program in the USA, performing in front of casting directors and completed an Australian Music Institution course in Performance. I’ve successfully completed the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze and Silver Awards, been a Peer Support Leader and was the U17s Girls Age Champion at CDSSA Athletics. After HSC I intend to volunteer at Camp Sababa and focus on my music career. I have applied to audition for The Voice Season 12 next year and plan on applying to Berklee College of Music in Boston, America. I have also recently been contacted by a management agent in America, so I plan on making a trip soon. There’s a lot to look forward to, including performing at the L.O.V.E Awards in Los Angeles in February 2024. I also won’t forget about my sport. I love competing at sporting events so that will definitely continue. As I step into the next chapter of my life, I’m filled with enthusiasm and determination, ready to chase my dreams.

Mariah’s teachers and friends said: Mariah is incredibly talented, especially in music. She’s curious and confident, and stands up for what she believes in. She has an outgoing, funny, and determined nature, is caring and empathetic, and always finds time for her friendships, even with an extremely busy schedule.

CLASS OF 2023 ARIELLE MELAMED House Madricha Rashi

Ruach! I love it. The feeling of dancing with over 200 other people, jamming to Israeli music and other random songs will always hold a special place in my heart – something impossible to experience anywhere else.

Year 12 Prizes for Advanced English, English Extension 1, History Extension and Dux of the School I began my journey at Emanuel School in Year 5, and, as I reflect on my years here, the first thought that comes to mind is that Emanuel is an incredible and tight-knit community. You have to experience it to understand it. I particularly enjoyed House Music each year. The warm atmosphere and excitement of dancing together is incredible. Also, watching the Rashi 2023 Big House Dance after being so involved in its creation was really rewarding! I felt very proud. The opportunity to be a House Madricha has been invaluable. I learned about leadership, public speaking, the importance of reaching out to people across Year groups and bonding over shared experiences. I think this will be incredibly helpful for any job I go into in the future, as well as any personal travel plans or outreach programs I may eventually embark upon. Maintaining motivation for extended periods of time and making sure I work consistently hard across the school year has been a great – albeit inevitable – challenge of Year 12. I loved Maths, my class, my teacher, and everything about it. I also really enjoyed English Extension 2 this year, where I had the freedom to explore what interests me – metafiction, writing about writing, and the absurd genre – ultimately producing a tangible piece of work that I am incredibly proud to call my own. I have learned to appreciate my friends, teachers, and community more each day. These connections have taught me valuable life lessons, whether that be existential questioning in English (and learning the critical and absurd literary theory behind it), learning to manage my stress and learning to be compassionate to all around me, especially the amazing people I get to call my friends.

I want to be remembered at school for always laughing, being curious and willing to take action to make our warm Emanuel world better – whether with my friends, teachers or in leadership positions. If I were in a job interview, I would proudly mention my ability to balance academics and extra-curricular activities, including music, work experience in two jobs, and leadership roles such as being a Peer Support Leader in Year 11 and House Captain in Year 12. I’d also highlight the balance I’ve achieved with being an all-rounder at school – being awarded Dux in Years 7-12, Writer of the Year in Years 9-11, submitting two Major Works in History and English and ranking first in accelerated HSC Mathematics. I’m proud that I’ve always stayed curious and thank my teachers for helping me do so. My plans for the next few years include travelling to Southeast Asia at the end of 2023 and commencing university in 2024. I also hope to participate in overseas exchange programs.

Arielle’s teachers and friends said: Arielle was an outstanding House Madricha this year – exuding positivity and perseverance as she taught each Year group the House Music routines. She is a supportive friend, who is entertaining and extremely intelligent. Arielle will continue pursuing opportunities that enable her to explore her many passions.

CLASS OF 2023 AIDEN MERTEN

Emanuel School provided me an opportunity to flourish and without it I would not be the person I am today.

Emanuel School has been more than just a place of learning for me; it’s been a place of personal development, self-discovery, and cherished memories, that have shaped who I am today and whom I aspire to become in the future. I would describe myself as a reader, interesting and curious. These qualities have not only developed during my time at school, but have also shaped my identity and school experiences. Chavayah had a profound impact on me, opening my mind to new perspectives and encouraging me to re-evaluate what I am capable of. During my time at school, I’ve developed invaluable and critical skills outside of the academic syllabus, such as a lifelong love of learning and an excellent work ethic. I have a deep fascination with learning about mythology and past cultures and so Ancient History is a definite stand out for me. Performing in a traditional Italian Sword Fighting Competition was certainly a highlight!

I’d like to be remembered for my passion for music and the ability to read at an incredibly fast pace! My favourite school event is undoubtedly House Music, where I got to dance and sing with everyone. Looking ahead to the next few years, my plans include pursuing a degree in Psychology and Cognitive Brain Science at Macquarie University.

Aiden’s teachers and friends said: Aiden is one of those students who you know will go far in life. When you talk to him, you can see how easily he may become a future leader or politician. He is exceptionally knowledgeable about current affairs and so conversations with him are particularly enjoyable. Aiden loves books, is always eager to participate and is committed to personal growth and academic exploration.

CLASS OF 2023

House Music

CLASS OF 2023 RUBY MILLER House Madricha Szenes

Being an Emanuel school student is entirely unique to being a student from any other school. The experiences that Emanuel has provided have had such a positive impact on who I am as a person today.

Year 12 Prizes for Biology and Academic Excellence Nominated for OnSTAGE Individual Performance (Falling) Nominated for OnSTAGE Group Performance (The Crown) Emanuel School’s unique atmosphere, opportunities and community have played a significant role in shaping my identity. My journey commenced in Year K, and it has been a remarkable experience filled with growth and meaningful connections. Emanuel is a place where students lead many aspects of school life and I have always been amazed at how the School embraces this idea, creating a sense of togetherness. Drama stands out as my favourite subject and provided me with the opportunity to step away from pen and paper and focus on something that I am truly passionate about. My favourite school events were the musicals, from Seussical in Primary School to Lord of the Flies last year. Emanuel has really helped me find my passion for performing. Having the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities such as the Drama productions has had such a positive impact on me, allowing a balance in my life which helped me thrive during my final years. Having had the opportunity to accelerate in Maths made my love for the subject even stronger. It gave me the push I needed to work on my skills in the subject and to continue to improve, and this has made me want to pursue Maths in a future career.

Being Szenes House Madricha allowed me to develop my organisational and teamwork skills, which has really set me up for my next chapter in life. Leading House programs every week was so rewarding and meant I had to step out of my comfort zone. Emanuel has taught me the importance of having different passions and how they contribute to overall happiness. I’ve learned the significance of perseverance when facing challenges and the impact that the people we surround ourselves with have on our lives. I think my friends would describe me as hardworking, incredibly indecisive, always asking questions and always willing to give everything a go. I plan to take a gap year next year and then pursue a degree in Science or Mathematics.

Ruby’s teachers and friends said: Ruby is one of the most hardworking, devoted and nicest people. She is known for her curiosity, dedication, and willingness to tackle challenges head-on. She is inquisitive and always eager to embrace new experiences.

Chavayah holds a special place in my heart. Our trip to Israel was an unforgettable experience, and it was on the first Shabbat in Israel that I felt an incredible connection with my Year group. Seeing my group smiling, singing and dancing together was really special.

CLASS OF 2023 COBY NEW Head Madrich

Amidst the gates of endless ruach, sport, music and friendships, I’ve found both a school and a family which will forever be a part of me.

Year 12 Prizes for Music 1 and Contribution to the Jewish Life of the School My Emanuel journey began at Kornmehl and when I think of Emanuel School, the first word that comes to mind is “second home”. It’s a place where I’ve found a sense of belonging and comfort.

Beyond the syllabus, I’ve learned how to be an effective leader, make genuine connections with others, and treat people with kindness and respect. These lessons shape the way I interact with the world.

Meir winning House Music in 2023 was a highlight. The extensive planning and effort that went into the event was insane, and seeing the night unfold, with Meir winning, was incredibly rewarding. Winning the JDS Football Cup against Moriah last year was a proud moment for us all.

I plan to take next year off, combining work and travel. I have a keen interest in Sport Science and Outdoor Education, so hopefully my studies will include these areas of interest. I plan to keep playing futsal and soccer at a high level and stay in contact with friends from Emanuel as well as meeting new friends outside the school gates.

One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced has been finding a balance between extra-curricular activities, leadership commitments, my social life, and academics, especially given my enthusiasm for throwing myself at the many opportunities available. I hope to be remembered as the person who revitalised the Tefillah space for Years 7 and 8 (and hopefully soon for the rest of High School). Transforming it into a musical and uplifting experience was so fulfilling. I also hope people have seen me as being an approachable, involved and happy person in general. Ayekah had a profound impact on me. It shifted my perspective from focusing solely on what I want to do when I’m older, to considering who and what kind of person I want to be. All the leadership opportunities I’ve been given including serving as Peer Support Leader and Head Madrich, helping with the planning of House Music, captaining school sports teams, completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver Award and organising Shabbat/ Tefillah, have given me the confidence and skills to effectively lead and work with groups of people in a variety of settings.

Coby’s teachers and friends said: Coby is a natural leader and an exceptionally well-rounded and awesome guy. He is easy-going, consistently smiling, and is always open to new ideas. Coby’s diverse talents extend to both his musical and athletic abilities. His empathetic nature influences his interactions, creating a positive and supportive environment for those around him.

CLASS OF 2023

LET US

PRAY, SING AND DANCE

LIKE NO ONE’S WATCHING

As a school and community, Emanuel would not be Emanuel without its incredible tefillah experiences which are strengthened through song, dance and ruach (meaning ‘spirit’). The way in which we pray is something that will always remain at the heart of Emanuel. As an egalitarian, pluralist Jewish school, Emanuel faces a challenge in its practice of Judaism through prayer. How can a school maintain its Jewish identity while fostering growth and individual acceptance? And yet, it is this very struggle that creates such a powerful Jewish education, allowing students to form their very own connection to their expression of Judaism and prayer. For years, Emanuel leaders have been asking the same question: “Why can’t students bring the same enthusiasm and ruach to Monday tefillah as they do to Shabbat?”. As two passionate musicians, we felt strongly that music was the key to being able to engage students at Monday morning tefillah. So, we took action. We began by discussing our ideas with the Head of Jewish Life, Morah Adina. Lucky for us, she was all for a musical tefillah service! After brainstorming ideas, we decided to take tunes to modern songs such as Happy by Pharrell Williams, and Wake Me Up by Avicci, and put the words of our usual Monday morning prayers to these tunes. Bringing music to our services also brought familiarity, which led to even greater participation. There is something about music that brings together groups of people. Whether they know the meaning of the words or not, the communal feeling of singing together in unison (or harmony), with a large group of people, creates an enthusiastic and radiant atmosphere, much like our vision of replicating the vibe of Friday morning Shabbat services. By Coby New and Adam Rothschild

My time at Emanuel began in Year 7, which also marked the beginning of my exploration into individual Jewish prayer. My first experience of Emanuel prayer through ruach was Friday morning Kabbalat Shabbat, led by the Year 12s. This opened my eyes and my mind, showing me how I can connect to prayer through collective song and dance. Being able to sing Shabbat songs of love, peace and harmony, such as Hinei Matov, or Olam Chesed Yibaneh, with the whole of High School, created a deep sense of belonging and happiness. This is exactly how I would explain the experience of ruach through prayer: a sense of belonging and happiness being brought into one’s heart. Indeed, Emanuel’s Shabbatot allow students of all backgrounds, genders and ideologies to come together and celebrate our individual and rich Jewish identities. The new-found enthusiasm in Monday morning prayers, along with the everlasting vibrancy of ruach, helps students explore and discover their connection to Judaism and provides an exciting and inviting start to the day. Without this, Emanuel wouldn’t be the inclusive and positive space it is today. By Ruby Grynberg

CLASS OF 2023 JAKE NEWFIELD House Madrich Szenes

Doing the right thing is never wrong, and the right people will know that.

Year 12 Prize for Academic Excellence Emanuel is a strong community where everyone supports and helps each other. This connection and sense of belonging is visible particularly at Friday ruach, with us dancing our hearts out and singing together. It is truly a special and quintessentially Emanuel experience. Maths was definitely my favourite subject because I love problem solving and there is a clear distinction between the right and wrong answer. The greatest challenge I have faced at school was the struggle to balance schoolwork, school leadership, sports, and a social life, all while attempting (and mostly failing) to get a good night’s sleep. Through my House Madrich position, I learned a lot about leadership, communication and teamwork. I was also given a level of autonomy that gave me the space to be creative and set me up for life outside of school. House Music was my favourite school event. While it was a lot of work and a bit stressful to organise, it was amazing to see everything come together on the night and so much fun to be on stage dancing with my friends.

If I were in a job interview, I would mention that I once started a Mexican Wave at the Sydney Cricket Ground; ran a half-marathon without training in pouring rain; played basketball and soccer matches the day before a final Maths exam and was ‘headhunted’ for my first job at 13 as a waiter in a local café! I plan to attend university to study Mathematics and Data Science, and then possibly work in the finance sector.

Jake’s teachers and friends said: Jake is a hardworking, smart, and kind person. His confident and determined nature was evident while he was House Madrich, as well the compassion he displays for others. Jake has a unique sense of humour and is passionate, with never-ending energy.

CLASS OF 2023 SCOTT REUVENY Madrich

Embrace yourself with the warm, passionate, and communal culture of Emanuel School – it’s a special one.

Year 12 Prizes for Drama and School Spirit Nominated for OnSTAGE Individual Performance (Fine Young Men) Nominated for OnSTAGE Group Performance (The Crown) Emanuel places an extremely high value on community, and being part of such a warm and caring community led to me embrace the importance of connection and friendship. One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced during High School was finding the motivation to study when not at school. I was extremely attentive during lessons, but by the time I got home I would find it hard to concentrate as I was so tired. I often studied in libraries or other quiet environments with fewer distractions, which helped. Due to COVID our Year group missed out on Ski Camp and so the Jewish Life Team organised a camp called Mini-Mach. Each night, some of my friends and I would go stargazing – we talked endlessly while looking up at the stars. Those moments of deep connection have become a significant part of my Emanuel experience. Like so many others, I enjoyed being an active participant in Ruach every Shabbat. The vibrant and spirited atmosphere is a testament to the strong sense of community at Emanuel. I’m about to be extremely generic here – and I apologise – but to choose only one favourite subject is extremely difficult, so I’m going to cheat a little and say three!

Drama, because not only is the course so much fun, over the years my teacher has become such an incredible role model and mentor. Her guidance has extended beyond the classroom, providing valuable advice for all aspects of my life. Visual Arts, because art theory honestly taught me so much about the world – it allowed me to view certain time periods through the lens of art, unlocking a deep interest for art theory and the art world. I also greatly admire my Art Teacher. English Advanced – specifically in Year 11 – probably had the biggest impact on me. My teacher inspired my deep passion and fascination for literature and I am forever grateful for that. Along with my passion for Literature and the Arts, I’d like to be remembered for my curiosity and quest for knowledge. I think those qualities are intrinsic to the culture that many Emanuel teachers foster in their students. In 2024, I am planning to take a gap year and travel around Europe with friends. Afterwards, I am considering studying Law at university.

Scottt’s teachers and friends said: Scott is incredibly passionate and has a sarcastically witty sense of humour. He is enthusiastic, compassionate, and always willing to step outside of his comfort zone.

CLASS OF 2023

THE CREATIVE PROCESS Starting any major work was extremely daunting. Between the two of us, we were studying and producing Major Works for Visual Arts, English Extension 2, Music and Drama. We had gone from creating works and performances with structured guidelines and rules, to an ‘empty canvas’ with endless possibilities. The first two terms were filled with experimentation, brainstorms and research, whilst continuously confining our actions in the creative process, to gain the marks we desired. However, this came at an expense. We would limit ourselves, attempting to force the creative process into a linear one. We questioned: “If I sculpted my clay in this shape, would I get more marks? If I sang a classical song, would I be graded higher?”. For a moment, we lost perspective for why we chose these creative subjects in the first place. As the courses grew, our passion for creative thinking and the major works we were creating burgeoned. Now, what they don’t tell you about any great artwork, piece of literature, or performance, is the gruelling creative process – what really goes on behind the curtains. Beginning our Major Works took a whole other range of skills and creative thinking to grab the ideas from our heads and form them into existence – come up with an art idea, research and write extensively about it in your A3 art diary, realise you cannot properly articulate it, or it’s probably impossible to execute, restart and come up with a new idea… repeat. And it was like this with all our Major Works: tonnes of short story drafts, monologue scripts, song ideas, guitar riffs… as tiresome as this cycle was, and although we may not have viewed it positively at the time, it was absolutely vital that we explored everything we could, to maximise the creative process.

We collectively recognised that the creative process is a cruel, ambitious, beautiful paradox. It is an amalgamation of exploring your fascinations and curiosities, whilst dealing with the burdening pressures you set on your self-conscious teenage self. There were many discussions with teachers, friends and family about the progress of our Works. Discussing changes to make to the original plan was quite difficult to put into practice initially. The few weeks before all the Major Works were due were extremely draining. We had finished what we thought at the time would be the completed work, but it did not feel finished yet. The guitar had to be slightly tweaked, or the scene where the character shape-shifts didn’t make sense. This resulted in a lack of motivation and energy, and we struggled to keep pushing through and make our Major Works be the best that they could be. However, along with the motivation from our teachers, our innate ambition and passion for creativity pushed us to keep going, and we are genuinely so glad we did. Neither of us will forget the fulfilling feeling when we figured out the final touches to our Works, and it all came together. We are so incredibly grateful to undertake the creative process, completing our Major Works as part of our HSC. We were able to escape from the overwhelming pressures of exams, to an alternative mode of learning and thinking where we could express our thoughts and our own creativity. Although there were many roadblocks and at times it was difficult to balance everything, our HSC would not have been the same without it. By Scott Reuveny and Lotus van der Starre

CLASS OF 2023

One panel of a series of five paintings that make up Ella Hart’s HSC Visual Arts Body of Work, Internal Worlds.

CLASS OF 2023 ADAM ROTHSCHILD Madrich

Emanuel is more than just a school that provides education for your mind. It is a place that provides connection, friendship and growth.

Year 12 Prizes for Contribution to the Jewish Life of the School, Contribution to Music and Mensch of the Year I came to Emanuel in Year 7. It was a big adjustment to make as I left a lot of good friends behind and an environment I loved. At first, I found the move daunting but after a while I started to find my way. It’s hard to believe that is how I felt all those years ago as I get ready to leave Emanuel – a school I love and will really miss. I hope to be remembered for my contribution to Music and how I was both inspired and supported by my teachers and older peers. Hopefully the way I supported younger musicians will be part of my legacy too. I am proud of my leadership skills that have been developed through my roles as a Peer Support Leader and Year 12 Madrich. I can see how these will be invaluable in my next life chapter. Academically, I have enjoyed Maths and Music the most, as both of these provided me with intellectual challenges and enabled me to identify and develop my passions.

Beyond the syllabus, I feel that I have learnt the importance of seizing opportunities and diving headfirst into new experiences. It is important to put your hand up for new challenges outside of your comfort zone, as these will be the ones you carry forward and remember. My favourite event at Emanuel has to be Purim. Dressing up with friends has been a real highlight. One year, our group won the Best Dressed Prize – a can of beans – for our costumes as Tetris pieces! I know that I will miss school life, but I am also excited and curious for what the future holds.

Adam’s teachers and friends said: Adam is creative and enthusiastic. He is an all-rounder, great friend, kind, funny, caring and smart, as well as a hard worker. Adam is an excellent example of a leader, always participating 100%. His energy is uplifting and infectious to those around him.

CLASS OF 2023 JAKE SHARP House Madrich Rashi

My time at Emanuel has taught me to ‘Be you and a little bit more’. Stepping out of your comfort zone is where the memories are made.

Year 12 Prize for the student who best exhibits the characteristics of humility, honesty, integrity, hard work, excellence, community and love of Emanuel School. Emanuel School promotes a strong sense of community and togetherness, while simultaneously fostering individual growth and facilitating the diverse set of passions that each student possesses. Highlights of my time at Emanuel include hitting a three-point buzzer-beater in the Firsts Basketball grand finals to send the game to overtime, before eventually taking home the trophy! Another highlight, that I’m sure every single student would mention is Chavayah. Our four-week Israel trip was incredible as we were able to explore and learn about the country that the Jewish people call home, and also strengthen our relationships with our already tight-knit Year group. Finally, the privilege of being voted as one of the House Madrichim was truly an experience I’ll never forget or take for granted. Being able to work behind the scenes in planning House-related events brought a huge amount of fun to a year that was sometimes stressful and overwhelming. As COVID took Ski Camp away from us in Year 9, we instead attended Mini Mach, a Jewish life camp run by the Informal Jewish Life Educators. At Camp I was able to connect to my Judaism through new pathways and values including chesed (kindness), tikkun olam (repairing the world) and kehillah (community). My favourite subjects have varied drastically through the years. I enjoyed Drama in my intermediate years as it unlocked my confidence and creativity that was fairly hidden away as a much younger student. In Year 12, I mostly enjoyed my Science subjects – Chemistry and Physics. Being able to learn how the world works was definitely confusing at times, but ultimately, nothing quite beat the feeling of walking out of class and having understood some wacky theory on Special Relativity.

As much as I am so grateful for the teachers and staff for helping me along my academic journey, the things I’ve learnt beyond the syllabus are what I’ll permanently take away from my experience at Emanuel. Whether that be trying to spend as much time as possible with friends over breaks or participating in extra-curricular clubs, bands or sports teams, I’ve learned from school the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Finding that blend of being productive but also the time to do the things you enjoy is something Emanuel highly encourages and something I’m incredibly grateful for. I hope to be remembered at school as someone who tried to make others smile, someone who may have been on the quieter side but wasn’t afraid to apply himself in many aspects of school life. If I were to mention my personal achievements in a job interview, it would have to include the leadership opportunities given to me, including being a Peer Support Leader, House Madrich and Firsts Basketball Captain. And in the unlikely case I apply to become a Broadway actor, I’d definitely mention the fact that I performed in three Cabarets across my six years of High School, despite not necessarily having the singing talent to back it up! I hope to study Biomedical Engineering at the University of New South Wales next year. Travelling across the world would be my ultimate goal but I probably need to earn more and save up for that to happen!

Jake’s teachers and friends said: Jake is someone who has a dry sense of humour, always looks on the bright side of life and values fairness.

CLASS OF 2023 JACK SIMON

School was easy. It was like riding a bike, except the bike is on fire because everything is on fire, as if we are in hell. But it’s fine because we have lukewarm bubblers to put the fire out.

I will always remember our Chavayah trip, where we played soccer for hours at base camp, participated in the Any Direction talent show, and enjoyed snorkelling in Eilat. I am particularly proud of my involvement in the Sports Va’ad and, together with friends, organised the Lexi Bader Futsal Cup. While I can’t narrow down a specific Jewish Life event that had a lasting impact on me, the past two years have had a significant impact on my spirituality and the word “community” comes to mind when I think of school.

ZACH URBACH

Emanuel Alumna, Genna Radnan, introduced me to the charity that she runs in Kenya called Gennarosity Abroad. Unfortunately, I never got the opportunity to go to Kenya in Year 10 because of COVID, but I will be volunteering in Malindi, Kenya next year for four months. I’m so grateful that Genna opened that pathway for me and this new chapter of my life.

Jack’s teachers and friends said: Jack is very passionate about anything he is involved in – for example he was one of the main organisers of the Lexi Bader Futsal Cup and his enthusiasm for running and planning a meaningful event like this one was obvious.

Friday morning ruach is such a special ritual that is not only fun, but also showcases our amazing energy and how tightly knit our community is.

Year 12 Prize for Sportsperson of the Year The most memorable experiences of my time at Emanuel would have to include the school sleepover, lunchtime basketball and being a member of the Sports Va’ad. My HSIE teacher left a lasting impression on me and I am very grateful for everything I learned from him. I particularly enjoyed Economics, not only because of this incredible teacher, but also because of the subject’s real-world applications. I am proud of my involvement in the Peer Support program, which helped me develop confidence, the ability to work in a team and learn how to best support others. Could I also mention that my friends and I won the 2021 Best Purim Costume as Joe Biden’s Secret Service Team? Chavayah was an experience like no other. It is not often that you get to travel overseas with all your

friends, who I hope would describe me as athletic, funny and compassionate. In an imaginary job interview I would mention my athletic accomplishments, and my ability to set and achieve my goals. I’ve even learned to backflip and build a computer! Over the next few years, I plan on studying Paramedicine at the University of Tasmania, completing the course in two years, and then going on a gap year.

Zac’s teachers and friends said: Zac is an incredibly friendly, warm, funny and kind person who is always able to make people smile. He is also very intelligent and will go far in life. Above all, he is extremely fast and athletic!

CLASS OF 2023