The United Synagogue

Bar Mitzvah Test


Bar Mitzvah test – the two little words that used to be enough to strike real terror into the hearts of boys approaching their thirteenth birthdays. But since the United Synagogue gave the test and syllabus a complete overhaul in 2004, a more common reaction to the concept is one of enthusiasm and excitement.

One of the first aspects of the old course to get a revamp was the pass/fail system. These days, boys are graded A – D according to their achievement and ability, meaning that everyone will attain some degree of success. Special arrangements to take an oral test can be made for those with learning difficulties.

Another big change to the Bar Mitzvah programme of studies is the “Judaism and Me” project. This part of the syllabus aims to allow pupils to express their thoughts and ideas through a range of creative options. Some boys choose to focus their energies on such topics as Shabbat, Kashrut, Israel or biblical personalities. Others may decide to produce a piece of creative writing, investigating themes like “a memorable Jewish experience” and “what Shabbat means to me”, or writing up a report of an interview with a Rabbi, Chazan or Warden. Those with a more practical bent may prefer to go for a design and technology project, creating a challah cloth, etrog box, chanukiah or even a pair of kosher tzizit. Another alternative is the “my family” assignment, devised and overseen by the Jewish Genealogical Society of Great Britain.

Practical activities also play an important role in the syllabus. As well as participating in local community programmes and contributing to synagogue and neighbourhood life, boys are invited to take part in the annual Tribe Bnei Mitzvah weekend – by all accounts a fantastic experience.

Finally, parents will be happy to note that in addition to the injection of fun, a central register of approved Bar Mitzvah teachers has also boosted their children’s course of study. All those on the list go for periodic training to ensure they have the necessary skills to effectively convey the syllabus and have been checked out with the Criminal Records Bureau.


For more information on the Bar Mitzvah Test please contact:

Rev. Michael Binstock
Senior Education Officer
Tel: 020 8457 9703
Email: michael@aje.org.uk