19.11.19

PaJeS annual conference for Headteachers considers the challenges facing schools and the importance of developing a clear strategy in order to ensure long term success. 

Thirty six Headteachers from Jewish schools across the UK came together for PaJeS fifth annual residential seminar for Headteachers at Hunton Park in Hertfordshire this week. The seminar gave the headteachers a chance to get together away from a school environment to discuss key aims for future education and the challenges facing schools.

The Heads were given a packed programme which included a presentation from Jon Boyd, Executive Director of JPR, who talked about '10 things you need to know about the future of British Jewish life’ and they participated in a discussion on current party political policies relating to education. 

Rachel Fink, Headteacher of JFS and Yvonne Baron, Headteacher of Etz Chaim who attended the Avi Chai/Harvard seminar as our Wohl Scholars this year also delivered a session. They examined how personal stories impact leadership and gave the group an opportunity to reflect for themselves.

The conference was also very fortunate to welcome Rabbi Dr. Barry Kislowicz, Executive Director of Educating for Impact (EFI), who spoke on “What makes a successful school?” and Josh Spinner, Executive Vice Chair of EFI and Executive Vice President and CEO of The Ronald S. Lauder Foundation, who asked “Why Jewish Schools?”  Both Barry and Josh discussed the importance of developing a school vision and a strategy for assessing and ensuring the delivery of long term success of the schools.  

Over the last two days, headteachers very much appreciated their time with one another and there was a general consensus from all participants, that it was an excellent opportunity to network and share ideas. Judith Caplan, headteacher of North West London Jewish Day School, reflected at the end of the seminar that the conference had, “Allowed us to think about ourselves and the impact we have in our schools.”

Rabbi David Meyer, Executive Director of PaJeS, thanked all of the headteachers for attending and participating in this important seminar and commented that, “This was the largest residential headteacher conference so far and reflects the importance of supporting our heads and giving them the opportunity to share and develop strategies for their schools.  We were very fortunate to have such expert presenters who facilitated fascinating conversations relevant to all the participants.  Thank you to the UJIA Ashdown for helping to make this a reality.”