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ASSOCIATION GAN CHLOMO ET ECOLE PRIMAIRE MAX + JENNY MARX
Our association was created in 1980 and has been managing a Jewish nursery, a kindergarden and an elementary school (grades 1-4) in Lausanne, Switzerland. Although the philosophy of the school is modern orthodox, we welcome all Jewish children, irrespective of the religious tendencies of their families, being convinced that a tolerant approach to Judaism is the key for the harmony of a small Jewish community (Lausanne counts approximately 500 Jewish families).
The children are at the center of our activities. We realize that each child has unique intellectual, emotional, social and physical abilities. Therefore, we make sure that the curriculum is well adapted to the faculty of each child. Our programs also provide a strong basis for the development of a Jewish identity in a loving and caring environment.
The nursery is divided into two groups: one for the children ages 2 to 31/2 and the other one for children up to 5 years old. Each group of approximately 12 children is led by a professional teacher and a teacher assistant.
The nursery offers activities adapted not only to each age but also to the individual needs of each child. The rooms are bright and well equipped. While the children progressively acquire a certain autonomy, the group activities help the children develop the concepts of sharing and tolerance. The children acquire their first notions of Judaism in a very natural way, mainly trough stories, songs, handicraft and games about Shabbat and the holidays.
The nursery welcomes the children Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Children have the option of being served lunches at school.
The kindergarten Francis is attended by children ages 5 to 7 (in Switzerland, children start elementary school when they reach 7). The kindergarten is divided into two age groups, under the supervision of two teachers and a teacher assistant. The program of the kindergarten follows the one of public kindergarten. In addition the Jewish program is integrated into the regular program and has proven very successful.
During these two years, children acquire basic notions in reading, writing and mathematics, necessary for a good start in the first grade. The children learn about mitzvot and are encouraged to perform them in their everyday life with their parents and friends. The study of modern Hebrew is approached through songs and short stories. Study of the weekly Torah portion completes the program. On Friday morning, a small Kiddush is organized by the children and is regarded as a highlight of the week.
Each morning is divided into two periods. During the first period, children of the same class work collectively on a project determined by the teachers. After a short recess, the second period is dedicated to individual work; during this period each child can choose the project according to his/her own interest. Afternoons' activities include gymnastic, handicraft, painting. Each year, children of the kindergarten spend a week at a ski camp organized by the school. This camp is very popular among the children.
The elementary school is open to all Jewish children between the ages 7 to 10. The school follows the programs of the swiss public schools and provides in addition a modern Jewish education. Every morning, the children gather for the morning prayer, where each child, in turn, takes the role of the hazan. The morning program is divided into one period of secular studies (math, French) and one period of religious studies. A warm lunch is served for all children attending the school. Afternoon programs are dedicated to science, gymnastic and art.
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