The newly appointed head of the Jewish primary school opening in south London in 2013 wishes that it had been operational 15 years ago.

Kate Baum said that had “there been a school of this nature when my children were young I would have sent them there”.

Currently head of the Alderbrook Primary School in Balham, the Richmond Synagogue member will have responsibility for the integrated curriculum at the South London Jewish Primary.

“I have spent the majority of my career teaching in multicultural mainstream education,” Mrs Baum said. “The opportunity to combine my passion for being a headteacher with a personal commitment to a Jewish way of life makes being the head of SLJPS particularly exciting.”

She was enthused at the prospect of working in a pluralist educational environment where 50 per cent of places were allocated on the basis of faith. “Children will be subscribing to the Jewish curriculum and ethos of the school. But we will recognise and celebrate every culture.

“The school will be a significant factor in ensuring the continuity and future development of Jewish life in south London.”

SLJPS chair Shirley Lee said: “Kate is an exceptional educator with a proven track record in both mainstream and Jewish education. We are delighted to welcome her to the team and are sure that our prospective parents and their children will share our enthusiasm.”

There is a January 15 deadline for applications for the 30 places in the 2013 reception class.