Summer Academy

About the Program

The Summer Academy for Jewish Educators is an intensive program for European Jewish educators and aspiring educators seeking to strengthen their professional skills and deepen their Jewish knowledge. Hosted by Paideia, the European Institute for Jewish Studies in Sweden, within the Renaissance Hub, the program offers a strong foundation in Jewish literacy, pedagogy, identity formation, and community development. The Summer Academy prepares participants for continued study and professional engagement at leading Jewish educational institutions across Europe, while fostering a strong international learning community.

What the Program Offers

Jewish Literacy: Engagement with core sources from the Hebrew Bible to modern Jewish thought, with particular attention to European Jewish cultures and intellectual traditions.

Pedagogy: Classical learning methods (such as chavruta) alongside contemporary teaching strategies; the Jewish educator toolbook in the 21st century.

Challenges: How to meaningfully engage difficult conversations in the classroom and beyond, including those surrounding diaspora–Israel relations.

Professional Development: Guided reflection on professional goals, educator impact, and long-term roles in Jewish education.

Learning Format

• Lectures, seminars, and workshops led by resident faculty and guest experts in Jewish studies, education, identity, and community work.
• Interactive and experiential learning.

The program is full-time and requires active participation throughout the 10 days.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, participants will:

• Strengthen their Jewish literacy and textual engagement skills
• Gain practical pedagogical tools applicable to diverse educational settings
• Clarify professional goals and future pathways in Jewish education
• Join a European network of Jewish educators and professionals

The Program is Designed For

• Jewish educators and aspiring educators working in formal, informal, or community-based educational settings across Europe.
• Educators committed to full participation in the ten-day program.
• Professionals seeking to deepen their Jewish literacy, pedagogical skills, and identity- and community-focused practice.

The Summer Academy can be taken as a stand-alone professional development program. Preference is given to participants who wish to continue their learning and specialize further through partner institutions.

The Summer Academy is developed in partnership with the Renaissance Hub.