King Solomon High School

“If not now, when?” echoes the motto of King Solomon High School. This poignant question hangs in the air here in Barkingside, Greater London. King Solomon High School isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Modern Orthodox Jewish education. Opened in 1993 by its first headmaster, Mr. Alastair Falk, King Solomon High School has been nurturing young minds for decades. The school started with a vision. To provide a comprehensive education rooted in Jewish values. Today, King Solomon High School boasts a vibrant student body of around 900 pupils aged 11 to 18. King Solomon High School isn’t just about textbooks and exams. It’s about fostering a “positive and proud sense of Jewish identity.” This is reflected in the mandatory Jewish Studies lessons and the incredible opportunity for Year 9 students to embark on a two-week trip to Israel. While a trip to Belgium was once a tradition, it’s no longer part of the school’s itinerary. However, Year 12 students can experience a thought-provoking one-week journey to Poland. The school has seen its share of leadership changes. Spencer Lewis took the helm in 2007, later moving to Yavneh College in 2013. Jo Shuter then stepped in, followed by Dr. Doherty as interim headteacher. Interestingly, for a period, King Solomon High School bore a different name. Thanks to generous donations from Dr. Moshe Kantor, president of the European Jewish Congress, it was renamed Kantor King Solomon High School in 2016. However, following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine and subsequent sanctions against Dr. Kantor by the UK government, the school reverted to its original name. King Solomon High School, while deeply rooted in its Jewish heritage, embraces diversity. In 2011, a significant 40% of the student population was non-Jewish. The school follows the National Curriculum, offering GCSEs for Years 9-11 and A-levels and Tech Levels for the sixth form. King Solomon High School has also been a launchpad for some notable figures. X-Factor finalist Stacey Solomon, Huddersfield Town footballer Jack Payne, former Labour politician Adam Langleben, and Waterloo Road actress Katie Griffiths all walked these halls. King Solomon High School is more than a school. It’s a community, a place of learning, and a springboard for future leaders. As you stand here, consider the school’s motto once more: “If not now, when?” It’s a call to action, a reminder to seize the moment, much like the students who pass through these doors every day.