Torah education is a life-long process of moral and spiritual development. Torah education at the secondary level guides and inspires the maturing adolescent to absorb Torah in her life. It must provide her with the information, skills, direction and enthusiasm required for continued study, practice and reflection throughout her life.
חנוך לנער על פי דרכו – it is specifically the נער -youth, not the little child nor the adult, about whom Shlomo HaMelech is concerned. The teenager is indeed a unique individual, having her own “דרכו” i.e. concerns, fears and hopes. Torah – its study and practice – has the ability to address all teens in all areas. If we want to ensure that גם כי יזקין לא יסור ממנה- that even after she has left our nest, the chinuch will endure, then we must educate her “על פי דרכו” – in a fashion and with a sensitivity that is consistent with whom she is. This demands a multi-faceted curriculum taught by sensitive educators who can communicate with each student and serve as role models for her future growth.
לא הביישן למד- one who is shy cannot learn, for the student would be too shy to ask questions. The process of Torah learning historically has been one of question and answer. Consequently אין הקפדן מלמד – one who is short tempered cannot teach, for the teacher would inhibit the student from being inquisitive. By creating an intellectually challenging academic program within an atmosphere of caring, concern and trust, each “נערה” – young lady, will be able to reach her potential and absorb Torah and Yiras Shamayim in a fashion such that גם כי יזקין לא יסור ממנה – it will have a lasting effect.
At Tiferes Bais Yaakov our students enjoy a challenging high quality dual curriculum of Judaic and General Studies. Our Judaic Studies program ensures that our students succeed at the best seminaries Eretz Yisrael has to offer. Our General Studies program, which is inspected by the Ministry of Education biannually, affords our students the ability to flourish at the University or College of their choosing. Tiferes Bais Yaakov, only a decade and a half old, has become the school of choice for the Toronto Community.