Jewish Way of Life Exhibition stands proudly at 250 year civic celebration of Jewish life in Exeter

The Board of Deputies of British Jews will be presenting the Jewish Way of Life Exhibition (JWOLE) at Exeter City Guildhall, as part of the Civic celebration of the 250 year history of Jews in the city.

The exhibit launches on Monday 22 July and opens Tuesday 23 July until Friday 26 July. The JWOLE exhibition will be open to everyone including local schools and residents, and everyone would be made to feel most welcome and are all invited to visit.

JWOLE has travelled around the UK for over 35 years. It teaches non-Jewish primary school children about the basics of the Jewish faith including festivals, Shabbat, Kashrut and Bar/Bat Mitzvah. It comprises about a dozen stands with simple information and role playing items, including a mocked up Shabbat table, dressing up items, examples of kosher foods and engaging puzzles.

The exhibition has an interactive and hands-on approach which gives visitors the opportunity to experience Judaism through the use of detailed illustrated display panels, authentic Jewish artefacts and various educational activities. The exhibition is open to people of all ages but is most suited to schoolchildren age seven to 14, in key stages two and three.

As well as being a strong learning tool for schoolchildren, JWOLE also demonstrates Judaism’s relevance in today’s society as a modern day religion. It bridges the gap between the Jewish community and other ethnic and religious groups living in the UK, resulting in the furthering of good community relations. Trained volunteers will be on hand at most sessions to answer questions and offer further explanation about the practices and values of Judaism in a fun, interactive way.

Sara Younger, Education Policy and Projects Manager for the Board, said: “We are delighted that the community have been successful securing the magnificent space at the Guildhall in Exeter city centre. We look forward to showcasing the Jewish Way of Life Exhibition and our new Life Cycle section to commemorate Exeter Jewish community’s 250 Years of Jewish Life. 

“Our aims are to offer an understanding of Judaism, to combat prejudice and stereotypes, whilst forming relationships with communities. This creates positive dialogue for the future. The Jewish community has lived in Exeter for 250 years, and we believe that JWOLE is a modern and fun way of ensuring youngsters understand the basics about Judaism.”