About Us
Our Story
HAMPSTEAD GARDEN SUBURB SYNAGOGUE (HGSS), AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS NORRICE LEA, IS A THRIVING MODERN ORTHODOX COMMUNITY WITH JUST UNDER 1300 MEMBER HOUSEHOLDS. THE COMMUNITY WAS FOUNDED IN 1934 AND IS A FLAGSHIP OF THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE.
WHAT WE DO
With a rich history, a commitment to religious observance and a dedication to fostering a sense of belonging, HGSS serves as both a spiritual home and a centre for communal engagement for all ages. We offer a diverse range of activities and initiatives aimed at nurturing the spiritual, educational and social growth of our members, while also playing an integral role in promoting Jewish values and identity.
If you prefer an in-person class or to learn online; if you’re free during the day or in the evening; if you’re available on weekdays or weekends – we’re sure you’ll find something in our programme that suits you.
Our social programme includes musical classes for babies to afternoon teas for seniors, table tennis to cookery classes. We host events that allow our members to meet, learn, engage and connect, all while investing in their Jewish journey.
To see just how much is on offer, please view our events page.
In addition to the wide range of activities that we offer for younger members of the community, HGSS is proud to be associated with Kerem School, a primary school housed on the Synagogue complex. Additionally, HGSS is home to the Aleph Centre, one of the largest Hebrew Classes (cheder) in London. You can learn more about both of these wonderful organisations by clicking the links below.
HGSS strives to be there for our members whenever they need us. We have an excellent support network, known as the Nefesh Network, staffed by fully trained volunteers who are able to organise lifts to medical appointments, visits to those who are housebound or in hospital, arrange hospitality on Shabbat, help with shopping and generally stay in touch with those who need our support.
NORRICE LEADER
The Norrice Leader is our in-house produced publication, which provides a twice yearly round up of events and happenings at HGSS. It covers news of personalities and communal events, as well as educational, cultural and youth activities. It features a Social and Personal section in which we’re delighted to publish photographs of those who have recently enjoyed a significant celebration.
Editor Hilary Halter, supported by an amazing editorial team, always seeks to broaden the scope of this publication. She welcomes comments, news and articles, so please get in touch if you want to contribute to the next edition.
To view the latest edition, click the link below.