Demand for mainstream Jewish secondary school places in London expected to remain stable over the next few years, according to projections made for the Jewish schools network, PaJeS.
Intake at the five schools considered for the study is expected to hit a peak the year after next, for entry September 2026, before dropping slightly after the next two years.
Next year’s intake is projected to be similar to the number who started secondary school this September.
PaJeS has been monitoring projected demand in order to ensure there are sufficient places in Jewish state schools in the capital.
Over the past few years, extra places were made available in the system since the middle of the last decade, when a bulge in numbers led to concerns that schools would struggle to find room.
This year, there were 890 places available with JFS adding a bulge class to cope with demand.
PaJeS chief executive Rabbi David Meyer said, “Our projections demonstrate not just stable demand, but a continued growth in many areas, reflecting the outstanding efforts of our schools and the enduring value our community places on Jewish education.”
He added, “Should the intake rise above the midline forecast, we will work with the schools for extra provision to meet the increased demand.”
The latest projections examined likely demand at the two Hasmonean High Schools, for Boys and Girls, JFS, JCoSS and Yavneh College.
Projected demand at Hasmonean, JFS, JCoSS and Yavneh College[Missing Credit]
Year 6 classes in mainstream Orthodox primaries are projected to grow, which could lead to increased demand at secondaries.
But other developments could lead to a swell in applications.
Some parents who might have otherwise sent children to non-Jewish schools could turn to the Jewish sector in the wake of rising antisemitism following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
Labour plans to impose VAT on private school fees could lead others to switch to the state sector.
Rabbi Meyer said, “While we face challenges, including potential increased demand due to external factors, I'm confident in our community's resilience and our schools' ability to adapt. This report will guide our strategic planning, ensuring we continue to meet the growing needs of Jewish families in London.”
