Another side to Israel Tours

Last week’s extended coverage of the regrettable behaviour of a few Israel Tour participants was good journalism. There is, however, a risk that the debate it inevitably sparks will end up throwing the baby out with the bath water.

Having been involved in communal life for 25 years in professional and lay leadership roles, I have seen the tremendous impact that Israel Tours have on the future sustainability of our community by connecting young Jews with Israel and each other.

This year I was privileged to see this impact first hand. My daughter participated in one of the Tours organised by Bnei Akiva. Discussing the experience with her it is clear that the dedication of her madrichim; the world class educational content of the programme; the friendships formed; and the exposure to the full range of challenges facing contemporary Israel will shape her Jewish identity and that of her group for the rest of their lives.

The foresight of UJIA and all of the Zionist Youth Movements in making Israel Tour an accessible key milestone in the lives of so many young British Jews is the most seminal investment in its future that our community makes each year.

It is a shame that the misbehaviour of a few young people might obscure the incredible value of the experience. Jeremy Newmark, Borehamwood, Herts

My siblings and I have gone on many Bnei Akiva summer camps and I also went on Israel Tour. The madrichim that I’ve had have always been caring, considerate and hard-working and great fun. It is a shame that a few mindless idiots have spoilt tour for others and it’s disgraceful that the parents have the chutzpah to blame the madrichim. My madrichim in BA were and are great, it’s a few very badly behaved participants and their parents who need to change. Danny Rosenstein, London NW4