About JFS

The Jews' Free School was founded in 1732 in Spitalfields. Today, we educate 2,000 students aged 11-18 in Kenton, North London.

Dr Moody’s Message

A rich and inspiring history

JFS School has a rich and inspiring history that spans nearly three centuries. Founded in 1732 as the Jews' Free School, JFS has grown to become one of the most renowned Jewish schools in the world, with a legacy of academic excellence, social responsibility, and communal engagement.

Throughout its history, JFS has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations of Jewish children. From its humble beginnings as a small charity school in the East End of London, JFS has evolved into a thriving educational institution, with a diverse student body and a commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Over the years, JFS has faced many challenges, including the devastation of two World Wars, economic downturns, and changing social norms. However, through it all, JFS has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing a first-class education for all its students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Today, JFS continues to inspire and empower young people to reach their full potential, to pursue their dreams and ambitions, and to make a positive difference in the world. Our graduates are leaders in every field, from business and law to medicine, the arts, and public service.

At JFS, we believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about cultivating character and nurturing a sense of purpose. We are proud to be part of a school that has been doing this for over 290 years, and we look forward to continuing this legacy for many generations to come.

Dr David Moody
Headteacher

Students with Dr Moody

Our History · Since 1732

294 years of educating the community

From Bell Lane in Spitalfields to our Kenton campus today - JFS has grown with British Jewry for nearly three centuries.

1732

1732

Founded at Bell Lane, Spitalfields

1900

1900

4,000 pupils - largest Jewish school in the world

1958

1958

Rebuilt and reopened in Camden

2002

2002

Purpose-built Kenton campus opens

Today

Today

~2,000 students · Europe's largest Jewish secondary

Bell Lane entrance

BELONGING

Four Houses. One Community

Each student belongs to one of four houses, each names for a figure from our history

Moses Angel

Angel

Moses Angel

Headteacher of JFS, between 1842 and 1897

Selig Brodetsky

Brodetsky

Selig Brodetsky

Mathematician & Zionist Leader

Israel Zangwill

Zangwill

Israel Zangwil

Writer & JFS alumnus

Chaim Weizmann

Weizmann

Chaim Weizmann

First President of Israel

LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE

Meet the people guiding JFS.

Senior Leadership, Governors, Heads of Year, Safeguarding and Educators