Family & Education
JCoSS ranked outstanding for Jewish studies
Promotion of Jewish values is an 'example' to other schools, say Pikuach inspectors
June 6, 2023 15:47
Promotion of Jewish values is an 'example' to other schools, say Pikuach inspectors
June 6, 2023 15:47JCoSS has retained its outstanding rating for Jewish studies with inspectors from the Board of Deputies Pikuach service enthusing over its inculcation of Jewish values.
Students know “what it is to be a mensch (a decent person of integrity, morality, fair, modest and humble in one’s dealings with others)… showing outstanding behaviour, concern for others and a wish to give back to the school community,” its latest inspection report said.
The “ambitious and varied” formal and informal Jewish curricula offered “memorable experiences and rich opportunities,” Pikuach said.
“The way the school goes about developing students’ Jewish character and values is exemplary and is worthy of being disseminated widely as an example to other schools,” it said.
Students were “encouraged to think deeply and to connect their Jewish learning to other areas of Judaism, as well as to life outside the classroom and school. They develop the skills and personal qualities necessary for living and working together both as a school community, and in the wider society.”
Debate and dialogue at the pluralist school were encouraged in a “respectful and meaningful”, inspectors said, highlighting the example of a debate over West Bank settlements.
Its excellent results included 74 per cent of A-level religious studies candidates achieving A* to B and 87 per cent grades 9 to 7 at GCSE.
Inspectors noted a beit midrash track which enabled key stage 3 students to embark on deeper textual study and the option of a Higher Project Qualification at key stage 4 - where subjects ranged from the purpose of prayer to the Mossad’s most iconic missions.
A prefect involved in activities for younger pupils told Pikuach, “JCoSS gives us the confidence to teach about Judaism.”
Debbie Juggler, the school’s director of Jewish learning, and Sara Levan, director of Jewish life, said the school was “building the future of the Jewish community. We strongly believe that our pluralistic approach to Jewish education is a model for the future as it allows our students to think independently and critically whilst developing a love and respect for Judaism.”