Noam School

Day school

Zurich, Switzerland
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About the school

NOAM is a prominent Jewish day school located in the center of Zurich, Switzerland. Since its establishment in 1980, the school has been committed to providing both Jewish and secular education of the highest standard. NOAM is officially recognized as a private school by the Department of Education of the Canton of Zurich and adheres to all state education requirements. One of the core values at NOAM is the promotion of tolerance, respect for others, and environmental consciousness, which are integrated into all aspects of the school.

At NOAM, students receive instruction from dedicated and experienced teachers. The Jewish studies are supervised by outstanding educators, Rabbi Shilo Cohen and Mrs. Nadia Kremer. The school places significant emphasis on offering a strong general education that equips students with the skills needed for a smooth transition to the next level of education. The TaL AM and Tal Sela programs, focusing on Hebrew language education, are implemented at NOAM, allowing students to attain fluency in speaking and writing Hebrew within the first six years. Older students benefit from the NETA Hebrew studies program.

In secondary school (years 7-9), NOAM intensively develops students' skills in secular subjects, Jewish studies, and Hebrew, tailored to each student's abilities and requirements. The school is also recognized by the Department of Education as a supportive institution for students with special needs. NOAM's integrated special needs department ensures that students with learning disabilities receive individualized support, either within a small class or from a special needs or remedial teacher, while still participating in regular class activities.

With approximately 180 students and over 40 teachers, NOAM maintains a manageable size that allows for personalized attention and support for each student. However, the school is also large enough to facilitate various enriching projects and foster friendships within the Jewish community.

The Yael Foundation has played an important role in sustaining the current standards of Jewish education at NOAM. The foundation's support that began in November 2021, enables the offering of comprehensive Jewish lessons and additional voluntary Jewish classes, which are taken advantage of by around 40 children. Moreover, the foundation's funding has helped sustain the "Achi Noam" after-school curriculum, which serves over 30 students. This program is particularly important for Noam alumni attending non-Jewish schools in grades 9-12, providing them with Hebrew and religious education, Jewish history, and Jewish philosophy.

Since April 2023, Yael Foundation has expanded the support in order to ensure the integration track for the kids with special needs and learning difficulties.

About the community

Zurich boasts a dynamic and thriving Jewish community that holds a deep historical legacy. Its roots can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with documented evidence of Jewish individuals residing in the city as early as the 13th century. Despite facing periods of discrimination, expulsions, and restrictions throughout history, the community has persevered and flourished.

The Israelitische Cultusgemeinde Zürich (ICZ), situated in the Enge district, serves as the primary synagogue in Zurich. It serves as a hub for religious services, cultural events, and communal gatherings. The ICZ plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of unity and providing a platform for diverse activities.

Within the Jewish community in Zurich, the modern Orthodox sector actively promotes initiatives aimed at cultivating strong communal bonds and Jewish modern orthodox education. One of the flagship projects in the range is the Noam school founded in 1979. 

It is important to note that the Jewish community in Zurich is characterized by its unique blend of traditions, practices, and organizational structures.