Yeshiva Faculty and Leadership History
The leadership and instructional staff of the yeshiva have evolved through a series of dedicated scholars, ensuring the continuity of traditional study and spiritual guidance. From its early foundations to its current administration, the institution has been shaped by the vision of its Rosh Yeshivas (heads of the school) and a committed faculty.
Key Facts
- Current Rosh Yeshiva: Rabbi Yankel Ehrentreu.
- Current Head of Kibbutz: Rabbi Avrohom Ehrentreu.
- Current Mashgiach: Rabbi Yisroel Rosenberg.
- Founding Leadership: Established with Rabbi Zushe Waltner as the first Rosh Yeshiva.
- Academic Structure: Organized into Shiur Alef (1st year), Shiur Beis (2nd year), and Shiur Gimmel (3rd year).
Evolution of Leadership
The yeshiva's leadership began with Rabbi Zushe Waltner. During this early period, Rabbi Shammai Zahn was appointed to assist in the administration after Rabbi Aryeh Leib Grossnass returned to the Gateshead Kolel. A significant turning point occurred in 1952 when Rabbi Waltner traveled to Tangier, Morocco, to recruit students; at the request of community leader Rabbi Shmuel Toledano, Waltner remained in Morocco to establish a school system, leading to Rabbi Zahn's appointment as Rosh Yeshiva.
Between 1965 and 1987, Rabbi Zechariah Gelley served alongside Rabbi Zahn. Following Rabbi Zahn's passing in 2003, the leadership transitioned to the current Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Yankel Ehrentreu. His brother, Rabbi Avrohom Ehrentreu, currently serves as the head of the Kibbutz.
Academic Faculty and Instructional Roles
The teaching staff, many of whom are members of the extended Ehrentreu-Zahn families, are organized by Shiur (class level). The Maggid Shiur (lecturer) provides the primary instruction for each level.
Shiur Alef (First Year)
Instruction for first-year students is split between Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Zahn, who serves as the morning Maggid Shiur, and Rabbi Shlomo Klyne, who serves as the afternoon Maggid Shiur.
Shiur Beis (Second Year)
Second-year students are taught by Rabbi Shmuel Wolf during the morning sessions and Rabbi Yankel Rubenstein during the afternoon sessions.
Shiur Gimmel (Third Year)
The third-year curriculum is led by Rabbi Dovid Zahn as the morning Maggid Shiur, while Rabbi Chaim Roberts serves as the Rosh Chabura, the head of the study group.
Additionally, the faculty includes several sho'elim u'meishivim (responsa scholars who answer halakhic questions), including Rabbi Yaki Cohen, Rabbi Chaim Goldkin, and Rabbi Yisroel Meir Hirsch.
The Role of the Mashgiach
The position of Mashgiach (spiritual supervisor) has been held by three primary figures in recent history. Rabbi Yaakov Abenson served in this capacity until his death in September 2024. In the 2010s, Rabbi Moshe Salomon was appointed as Mashgiach upon Rabbi Abenson's semi-retirement; Rabbi Salomon served until his death in July 2025. The role is currently held by Rabbi Yisroel Rosenberg.
| Class Level | Morning Maggid Shiur | Afternoon/Group Lead |
|---|---|---|
| Shiur Alef (1st Year) | Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Zahn | Rabbi Shlomo Klyne |
| Shiur Beis (2nd Year) | Rabbi Shmuel Wolf | Rabbi Yankel Rubenstein |
| Shiur Gimmel (3rd Year) | Rabbi Dovid Zahn | Rabbi Chaim Roberts (Rosh Chabura) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current Rosh Yeshiva?
The current Rosh Yeshiva is Rabbi Yankel Ehrentreu, who was appointed following the death of Rabbi Shammai Zahn in 2003.
What is the difference between a Maggid Shiur and a Rosh Chabura?
A Maggid Shiur is a lecturer who delivers the primary lessons for a specific class level, while a Rosh Chabura is the head of a specific study group, as seen with Rabbi Chaim Roberts in Shiur Gimmel.
Who currently serves as the Mashgiach?
Rabbi Yisroel Rosenberg is the current Mashgiach, succeeding Rabbi Moshe Salomon.
Why did Rabbi Zushe Waltner leave the yeshiva?
In 1952, during a trip to Tangier, Morocco, to collect students, Rabbi Waltner was requested by community leader Rabbi Shmuel Toledano to remain and establish a school system in Morocco.
Which families are prominent within the faculty?
Many members of the faculty are part of the extended Ehrentreu and Zahn families.