At the end of November 2025, a group of senior educators from across the UK Jewish school network travelled together to Israel as part of the PaJeS Israel Leadership Programme. Though only a short visit, the experience was rich, inspiring, and deeply meaningful – both personally and professionally.
The programme was expertly led by Rabbi David Meyer and his wonderful team at PaJeS, in conjunction with WZO, whose warmth, professionalism, and meticulous planning ensured that every moment of the trip was purposeful and impactful.
Over four days, we visited four of Israel’s leading academic institutions: Tel Aviv University, Bar-Ilan University, the Technion, and the Hebrew University on Mount Scopus. In each institution we were warmly welcomed by deans, professors, and English-speaking students who generously gave their time to help us understand the opportunities available for British students considering higher education in Israel.
We gained clear insight into entry requirements, English-language tracks, and the generous scholarships and stipends offered – particularly for students considering Aliyah. It was eye-opening to see how many well-supported pathways exist, many of which our students may not yet realise are within their reach.
A central meeting of the trip was with Ofir Sofer, the Minister of Aliyah and Integration. We raised the concern that the Israeli Psychometric Exam remains a significant barrier for many UK students. The Minister listened attentively and acknowledged the need to consider how this requirement affects international applicants – a reassuring sign that our students’ needs are being heard at the highest levels.
Another powerful element of the trip was the camaraderie and collaboration between the participating schools. Colleagues from Immanuel College, JCoSS, Menorah High, Yavneh College, Brodetsky and the Leeds Jewish Free School, and King David High School (Manchester) spent four days learning, discussing, and vision-building together. The new friendships and professional links formed will undoubtedly strengthen our schools long after the trip.
The most moving moments, however, came during our visits to the Nova site and Sderot. Standing in those places of profound loss and remarkable resilience was a stark reminder of the importance of our work: nurturing young people who are informed, connected, compassionate, and proud of their heritage.
This year’s Israel Leadership Programme highlighted the genuinely exciting higher-education opportunities available for our students in Israel. It also demonstrated the invaluable role PaJeS continues to play in bringing schools together, strengthening relationships, and amplifying our shared voice.
The feedback from all participants has been outstanding. We return with deeper knowledge, stronger partnerships, and renewed commitment to ensuring that every young person in our schools knows that Israel is not only an emotional homeland — it is also a realistic, accessible, and welcoming option for their future.
Rabbi Chaim Cohen
Head of Religious Studies
King David High School
