Rabbi Mordechai Chalk grew up in Golders Green, going to school at Hasmonean High School for Boys before spending the next 11 years in Israel studying at Bais Yisroel Yeshiva, the Mir and teaching at Yeshivat Sha’arei Mevaseret Zion. Rabbi Chalk teaches part time in JFS and has just graduated from the Rabbinic Training Academy (“RTA”). Rabbi Chalk is also a qualified shochet and personal trainer. He enjoys lifting heavy weights in the gym and still supports his local team, Barnet FC.
Shira grew up in St John’s Wood and is the daughter of Dayan and Rebbetzen Binstock. She has spent much of her life as part of the United Synagogue and was active in her shul. Shira studied in Israel, has a degree in Education from Goldsmiths, University of London and has been involved in education work subsequently. She writes popular ‘Tribe Scribe’ cartoon in the weekly United Synagogue Daf Hashavua.
The Chalks have spent the last two years as founding members of the Rabbinic Training Academy giving them the opportunity to gain experience and understanding of the UK Jewish and broader community. In addition to advanced Halachic studies, the RTA provides professional development and training in counselling, relationships and mental wellbeing.