08 Jun Timeless Lessons from Rabbi Yochanan
ben Zakkai and Practical Strategies for
Exam Success
As exam season approaches, many students are deep in revision. But alongside the focus on content and techniques, it’s worth asking a deeper question: What does it truly mean to be a great student?
In Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers), Chapter 2, Mishna 8, Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai identifies the five greatest students he ever taught. These students each had a defining strength that contributed to their success—not just academically, but spiritually and morally. These qualities hold valuable lessons for how we approach learning today.
Crucially, the Mishna also reminds us that greatness doesn’t arise in a vacuum. Behind each student’s success was a culture of learning, discipline, and curiosity—often supported by family, mentors, and community.
As Rachel Kolber, Head of Education Support, highlights in her Kesher article “How Can I Help My Child Prepare for SATs/Exams?”, parents play a vital role in shaping learning attitudes. When families create an environment that values reading, questioning, and shared learning, children grow to see learning not just as a task—but as a way of life. Similarly, Sonia Slonim, Head of HASS, also contributed to Kesher with a forward-thinking guide on using AI tools to support revision and learning, helping students access resources, test their understanding, and personalise their study strategies. Let’s take a closer look at the five students of Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, and match each of their strengths with a practical learning strategy that students—and parents—can apply today.
1. Rabbi Eliezer ben Hurkanos – “A plastered cistern that does not lose a drop”
Key trait: Perfect memory; retains everything he learns.
Strategy: Spaced repetition and active recall.
Learning isn’t about last-minute cramming. Like Rabbi Eliezer, students benefit most when they revise regularly over time, test themselves, and build strong recall pathways.
2. Rabbi Yehoshua ben Chananya – “Happy is the woman who gave birth to him”
Key trait: Benefited from early and consistent exposure to learning.
Strategy: Build a home that values learning.
Great learners are often raised in homes where books are read, questions are welcomed, and curiosity is nurtured. Even today, students thrive when learning is visible and supported in their environment.
3. Rabbi Yossi HaCohen – A pious man who goes beyond the letter of the law
Key trait: Goes above and beyond expectations.
Strategy: Deep engagement and ownership.
Instead of doing the bare minimum, strong students take initiative: refining their notes, seeking clarification, or exploring beyond what was assigned.
4. Rabbi Shimon ben Netanel – Fears sin and is strict with himself
Key trait: High standards and personal discipline.
Strategy: Self-monitoring and consistency.
Whether it’s sticking to a study timetable or reaching out when help is needed, success often comes down to setting goals and holding oneself accountable.
5. Rabbi Elazar ben Arach – “Like a spring that ever gathers force”
Key trait: Broad-minded and innovative thinker.
Strategy: Analysis and creativity.
Strong students don’t just memorise—they connect ideas, ask questions, and explore meaning. Tools like mind maps, practice essays, and concept-based study methods help deepen understanding.
Supporting Greatness at Home: Advice from Rachel Kolber
In her recent Kesher article, Rachel Kolber offered practical strategies for parents wanting to support their children’s study habits. Her key suggestions are worth repeating and include:
- Establish a study plan: Create a visible planner to map out revision time weeks in advance.
- Use the exam outline: Encourage your child to make their own study notes using provided class materials—not AI or unreliable sources.
- Create a positive environment: A quiet, shared space near an adult is better than sending students to study alone in their rooms.
- Monitor progress: Check in regularly, offering guidance while encouraging independence.
- Encourage balance: Support your child’s mental health with breaks, sleep, and perspective.
These ideas complement the lessons of Pirkei Avot: that excellence in learning comes from consistent effort, structure, values, and support.
Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai’s students became great not only because of their talents but because they lived in environments that nurtured learning, curiosity, and moral integrity. As exams approach, let’s take inspiration from our Mishnaic wisdom and understanding of neuroscience to support our students not just to succeed—but to grow as learners and people.
Year 11 Exams start on June 16.
SATs for Years 7 & 8 and Exams for Years 9 and 10 start on June 23.
Shabbat Shalom & Goodluck to our students!
Shoshi Vorchheimer, Head of Teaching and Learning