Year 9 students recently visited Finchley Reform Synagogue as part of their Religious Studies curriculum, taking part in a powerful and thought provoking workshop themed around Holocaust Memorial Day. The visit provided students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Holocaust and remembrance.

A particularly moving part of the day was hearing from guest speaker John Hajdu, a Holocaust survivor from Hungary who later lived under the socialist regime in Budapest. John shared his personal experiences with honesty and courage, offering students a rare and invaluable insight into life during and after the Holocaust. His testimony brought history to life and allowed students to connect emotionally.

Students also took part in activities exploring key events of the Holocaust, alongside inspiring tasks based on the actions of Irena Sendler, who saved thousands of Jewish children.

The impact of the visit was clear. Nathan P, 9 Ludgate said “I never thought that talking to a survivor would be so inspirational.” Hailey T, 9 Strand reflected, “I was chosen to light a candle in memory of those who passed away during the Holocaust; it was very moving.” Alex S, 9 Bow added, “I found it really interesting to see how different cultures work together and the different perspectives of how people lived during the Holocaust.”