City of London Boys have maintained an unshakeable grip on the Etgar Israel trophy as they won it for a sixth time this year.
A team from the school has triumphed every year it has entered since the launch of the competition in 2018 – they did not take part in 2021 while Covid prevented it taking place the previous year.
Nearly 90 year-9 teenagers from several schools were tested on their knowledge of Israeli politics, geography, history and culture in the annual challenge which was sponsored by JNF UK.
A JFS team came second, while an Immanuel College group were in bronze position.
An Immanuel team took the creative prize by designing the best itinerary for the family of the incoming US Ambassador to Israel. Their itinerary featured visits to some of JNF UK’s transformative projects, highlighting the charity’s role in shaping Israel’s future.
Students prepare for the Yom Ha’atzmaut contest by swotting up on the Etgar Israel Handbook.
As well as the quiz, they also enjoyed a culinary challenge by being asked to make hummus.
Etgar believes the event provides a foundation of knowledge about Israel, which is crucial to creating a deep sense of appreciation of the Jewish state and a bulwark against the anti-Israel sentiment that students may face at university and beyond.
The afternoon of celebration, which was rounded off with a barbecue, began on a serious note with an address by Aaron, a veteran from Beit Halochem UK, which supports the rehabilitation of injured Israeli soldiers. He spoke movingly of his experience after rushing back to Israel from a business trip in Las Vegas after October 7.
JNF UK’s CEO Elan Gorji said, “Through programmes like Etgar Israel, we’re helping young people build a deeper understanding of Israel and empowering them to carry that connection with pride and purpose into the future.
“Watching students engage so enthusiastically with Israel’s story – through tough questions, creative thinking, and even hummus-making – was truly inspiring.”
To get more from community, click here to sign up for our free community newsletter.