Nachshon is the first Israeli preparatory academy for social leadership open to all Israeli high school graduates. It was established in 1997, and is recognized by the Ministry of Settlement and National Missions, the Ministry of Defense, the Israeli Defense Forces as well as the Ministry of Education. Nachshon allows participants to tackle fundamental questions that concern Israeli youth and encourages participants to engage in an open discussion about Israeli society; all of which coincides with a rich academic program as well as personal and group experience. We operate a joint Zionist project with Masa enabling youth from abroad to join Nachshon as full participants in all social and educational activities.
Nachshon is active in three different locations, each with its own dormitories and classrooms – Mikveh Israel Agricultural Youth Village, Kibbutz Shoval and Sderot. Although led by a central educational team, the independence of the groups allows each group to develop its own unique cohesive identity and pride, which creates a greater framework for joint activities.
The Goals of Nachshon
1) To nurture motivated young adults with social awareness and the desire to contribute, during their army service and in civilian life afterwards.
2) To be active in improving Israel's diverse society (Nachshon in not affiliated with any political party).
Nachshon's Immersive Learning Program
Our students learn about the major concerns of the Israeli - Democratic State in an experiential manner, subjects include: Leadership, Jewish Studies, Zionism, geopolitics, Army Preparation, getting to know the country (often on foot) as well as its different population sectors. In addition, a large variety of subjects are taught in order to enrich the mind and soul, these include: Philosophy, Government, Current Affairs, Media and Economics, amongst others. Participants also undergo army preparation including: Physical fitness, hiking, navigation, survival, visiting army bases, meeting soldiers and commanders and learning about Israel's military history.
The students participate in volunteering programs, assisting different population sectors that need support. Furthermore, in order to influence and improve standards at a public and political level, participants get involved with different governmental and public institutes