Eden Primary School in Muswell Hill has marked a significant milestone with a vibrant bnei mitzvah ceremony, celebrating the spiritual growth of its students. Founded in September 2011, the school commemorated this milestone by involving children in creating their own tallitot, which are handmade prayer shawls, for the occasion.
The ceremony featured a bar mitzvah service in which each class participated by leading various elements. Students recited the Shema, sang the traditional song Ma Tovu, and read from the Torah. The event included a Dvar Torah reflection on the portion of Balak, culminating in a festive gathering complete with a kiddush, glitter tattoos, and live music.
During the afternoon Kol HaNe’arim ceremony, parents witnessed teachers bless each class under their tallitot. Helen Graff, the head of Eden Primary, emphasized the importance of the occasion: “As Eden marks its bar mitzvah year—a symbolic moment of growth, responsibility, and reflection—we wanted to honour not just the milestone of turning 13, but the spiritual and emotional journey of all our children.”
In Jewish tradition, reaching the age of 13 signifies coming of age and accepting new responsibilities. For Eden Primary, this celebration served as a powerful reminder of community and belonging. The children’s involvement in crafting their tallitot was a unique aspect of the ceremony. Each class chose specific pasokim (verses) and worked together to print and sew different squares, ensuring that every student participated, regardless of their religious background.
Graff noted the significance of this project, stating, “Every single part of the tallitot project was created by and for the children, which was amazing. It meant that every child, irrespective of religious background or belief, was involved. It was a really powerful visual reminder about the centrality of children in Jewish life and learning.”
The selection of the Balak portion was particularly fitting, as it contains the Ma Tovu prayer that students learn and sing throughout their time at Eden. The school’s founding head teacher, Jo Sassienie, played a pivotal role in establishing the institution alongside architects and co-founder Peter Kessler. After Sassienie’s departure in 2023, Graff, who was previously the deputy head, took over as head teacher.
Eden Primary has maintained a one-form entry system, fostering a close-knit community where strong relationships among families thrive. Graff highlighted the school’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “We pride ourselves on being a Jewish school where everybody is welcome. Our ethos embraces children from across the spectrum of Jewish belief and the wider community on an equal basis.”
The celebration aimed to highlight spiritual development beyond academic achievement. Graff explained that the school sought to reinforce its identity as a values-led Jewish institution with inclusive practices. “We wanted to create a visual and emotional experience the children will remember,” she added.
The bnei mitzvah celebration not only marked a significant moment in the school’s history but also provided a lasting contribution that resonates with the core values of Eden Primary. The event underscored the importance of community, creativity, and spiritual growth, principles that will continue to guide the school as it moves forward.
