Wolfson Hillel has been rated ‘Outstanding’ in its latest Pikuach inspection, following a top judgement from Ofsted in 2022. 

Wolfson Hillel Primary School is celebrating its first ‘Outstanding’ Pikuach rating, awarded after a two-day inspection at the end of June 2023. Inspectors found it to be “an outstanding school where pupils love their Jewish education and are inspired by it.” This comes just 12 months after the school received an ‘Outstanding’ in its first Ofsted inspection after the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Wolfson Hillel has made improvements in Jewish education since its ‘Good’ Pikuach judgement in 2018. Inspectors noted that “the proportion of outstanding lessons has increased” and that “the school has addressed the issue of Hebrew reading fluency.” Indeed, the proportion of current Year 6 students with ‘secure’ or ‘higher’ Hebrew fluency has increased from 52% to 72% in the space of one academic year. Inspectors spoke positively of teaching and learning throughout the school, particularly the “seamless education” where “all teachers work together as one team, with the same high expectations and standards.” 

As well as academic achievement, inspectors praised the community at Wolfson Hillel. They noted that “parental involvement is a strength of the school” and that they are “full of praise for the Jewish education their children receive.” The report commends the “visible and tangible” ethos of the school which “encourages pupils to show respect and sensitivity to others, regardless of their religious and cultural backgrounds and lifestyles.” 

Gareth Jones, CEO of JCAT, has also welcomed the findings of the glowing report. He says, “One of our biggest priorities as a Trust is to protect the future of Jewish education in the UK. Staff at Wolfson Hillel work tirelessly to instil in their pupils a strong understanding of their Jewish identity and Jewish history, which has been recognised by Pikuach in its latest inspection.” 

If your child is starting nursery or reception in 2024 and you are interested in finding out more about Wolfson Hillel, you can book a guided tour of the school by calling 0208 882 6487 or emailing angela.bass@whjps.jcat.co.uk.  

Full report can be read below.