RE trips don’t work without an early start, so after arriving cold, tired and blurry-eyed, yet in an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm, we left for London.

We first went to the Jewish Synagogue to meet our guide Pauline and to be taught about the building itself and the items in it. We were shown the safer scrolls (protected Torah scrolls) and their decorative sidings, the pews and both male and female separated parts of the synagogue. We were also read a section of the Torah in Arabic.

After the synagogue, we went to a kosher restaurant to eat under the dietary laws. The food was delicious and very filling. We then went to the shops - specifically Sharon’s Kosher Bakery to eat challah bread, which was different but delicious and then back towards the synagogue to the presentation hall to hear the awe-inspiring story of a Holocaust survivor Josef Perl. Just hearing about his experiences can teach us about the past and enhance our futures; one experience we will never forget. After his speech we had the chance to speak to him personally and buy his book, Faces in the Smoke.

The entire day was thoroughly enjoyed by all and unforgettable for the future. Our thanks to Mr Mill and Mrs Durant for organising this year after year.

Joe Vickers (11F)