Former Ofsted boss Sir Michael Wilshaw has been appointed interim executive principal of JFS following the departure of Rachel Fink.

In a letter to parents on Monday, governors' chair Andrew Moss wrote that Mrs Fink had "decided to step down as headteacher with effect from May 31". He acknowledged her service to the school over three years "and the enormity of the challenges presented during the Covid pandemic". 

Sir Michael, 74, served as chief inspector of schools in England until 2016, having previously worked as a teacher for 43 years, most recently at Mossbourne Community Academy in Hackney. He met pupils on Monday.

Mr Moss said plans for a permanent successor would be announced in due course. For the moment, Sir Michael would be supported by Dame Joan McVittie, a former London school head, safeguarding expert and senior Ofsted inspector. Dr Oliver Walton and Anna Joseph from the JFS senior leadership team would also take key supporting roles.

He acknowledged that "changes of this nature cause concern. We have full confidence in this team along with the entire staff body to deliver the educational priorities and to maintain the Jewish ethos of the school."

JFS was subject to an Ofsted inspection last month and a report is expected to be published soon. 

Mrs Fink was approached for comment.