With an incredible selection of engaging courses, thought-provoking events and fascinating tours, there is something for everyone. As 2025 marks the 170th anniversary of Jews’ College and LSJS, this term offers a unique opportunity to dive into the rich history and legacy of the organisation. Don’t miss two exclusive keynote lectures celebrating the remarkable personalities, groundbreaking ideas and fascinating journeys that have shaped LSJS over the decades.
As the home of advanced women’s learning, LSJS is also offering a new course for women to get to grips with Gemara. Unlocking Talmud in memory of Maureen Kendler z”l will enable beginners to build up their confidence with the text and navigate the language structure and reasoning of the commentaries.
LSJS are committed to furthering Rabbi Sacks’ unique Torah teachings and enables people to study his unique insights through their flagship free, popular Covenant & Continuity class on the weekly portion, taught by some of his closest students. The course connects ancient texts to modern-day life and is attended by hundreds of people from around the world.
To explore more of Rabbi Sacks’ insights into the challenges of today’s fraught and chaotic world, the second module of The Library of Rabbi Sacks course, which focuses on four of his significant works, starts this term. Not in God’s Name, with Dr Lindsay Simmonds, examines the causes of and responses to religious violence; and how to overcome them through Rabbi Sacks’ theological perspective on Genesis.
This term’s new courses include The Soul & the Afterlife, exploring different views on life after death and Jewish mysticism, revealing how ideas about the hereafter can enrich our lives today. Dive into the Song of Songs with LSJS’ Love Triangle course, which will uncover the enigmatic narratives in Tanach.
“I’m so glad I signed up to learn with LSJS this year; it is a fantastic start to my day and the highlight of my week,” said Sharon Green. “The classes have been so stimulating and inspiring and the teachers are excellent.”
For those that prefer to study outside the classroom, LSJS’ Where are the Dinosaurs? tour, with Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, at the Natural History Museum is sure to thrill students of all ages. The tour answers fundamental questions such as how old is life on Earth?, does Evolution clash with Jewish belief and why aren’t there any dinosaurs in Genesis?
“At the start of LSJS’ 170th year, our Spring programme realises what Chief Rabbi Adler said at the opening of Jews’ College: that its purpose is to ‘enlighten the intellect’ and ‘warm the heart’,” said Michael Rainsbury, Head of Adult Education. “Learn about the soul, study Tanach, delve into Rabbi Sacks’ books and tour with us in the Natural History or Charles Dickens museums – we are delighted to offer the community this platter of innovative and stimulating courses, tours and events.”
“As always, we are very proud of our excellent programme. There is something for everyone this term; from exploring how Muslims and Romans shaped our Judaism in Sages of Empires to examining whether peace is a naïve dream for Israel today in A Time for War & A Time for Peace,” said Joanne Greenaway, Chief Executive of LSJS.“
