JFS deputy head Simon Appleman will be the new head of Menorah Grammar School, taking charge at the beginning of the new academic year.

Menorah governors said there had been a strong field of candidates but Mr Appleman had impressed with his experience in leadership and building excellence in teaching.

Governors’ co-chairs Doniel Goldberg and Yonason Perl were “truly excited” by the appointment. Mr Appleman had “a remarkable track record of excellence in education and is the perfect person to build further on what has been achieved to date”, they said.

For his part, Mr Appleman recognised the “immense potential” of the school while thanking JFS “for the opportunities afforded to me over the last 19 years”.

Wishing him well, JFS head Rachel Fink said he had been “a stalwart of JFS over many years, especially during his period as acting headteacher. His unwavering commitment has impacted on thousands of students and colleagues.”