The Leeds Jewish high school opening in September has appointed “the most improved school in the north of England” as its educational partner.

It has paired up with the Wakefield-based Rodillian Academy, which has specialist arts college status.

Since the appointment of headteacher Andrew Goulty in 2008, Rodillian has evolved into a highly successful school with results in the top 10 per cent nationally.

Leeds Jewish Free School will start with up to 25 year seven children, building up to a capacity of 175 pupils by 2019.

Its premises will be adjacent to the Brodetsky Jewish Primary in Alwoodley, whose head, Jeremy Dunford, is executive head designate for the high school.

Reporting “a tremendous amount of interest from parents”, he said he had sent out 20 offers of places.

“There are a limited number of places still available and I would encourage parents who did not recieve their first choice or may be reassessing their choices to make a late application.”

Project leader Councillor Dan Cohen said that Rodillian’s “agenda for relentless improvement complements the vision that LJFS directors have for our school — high academic standards, a joy of learning and an expectation to contribute to the local community”.