Founded in 1948 Kerem School has a rich history. It began as the Hampstead Garden Suburb Jewish Kindergarten. Stanley Frankfurt a visionary man had a dream. He believed Jewish education was vital. His persistence led to the kindergarten’s opening. It was housed in the old Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue Hall. Dayan Meyer Lew the first Honorary Principal suggested the name Kerem. Kerem means vineyard. He wanted the children to grow and flourish like grapes on a vine.
The kindergarten quickly gained popularity. There was a long waiting list. New premises were needed. A purpose-built building was acquired in 1950 on Kingsley Way. Soon a primary school was needed. The synagogue provided space for Kerem School. It officially opened in January 1955. By 1956 it offered full primary education up to age 11.
Tragedy struck. David Carson a father of three Kerem School boys died. His widow Janis established the David Carson Memorial Fund. The fund paid for a complete refurbishment of the Kerem classrooms. The project finished in 1997. A playground was added behind the synagogue.
By 1998 Kerem School had 160 pupils. Kerem House its nursery school had 120. Kerem School has been led by remarkable individuals. Kerem House had three head teachers before merging. Mrs Cohen Mrs Anne Kennard and Mrs Diana Rose led the nursery. The primary school had several head teachers. Mr Sol Taylor Dr Steinberg Mr Moshe Dover Mrs Rosalind Goulden Mr Felsenstein Ms Alyson Burns and currently Ms Naomi Simon.
The school had a dedicated governing body. Stanley Frankfurt remained active until his passing near Kerem’s 50th anniversary in 1998. Peter Sheldon Julian Taylor Jonathan Goldstein David Wolfson and Samantha Leek have chaired the Governing Body. Parents have been vital to the school’s success. Governors cover all aspects of school life academic pastoral Jewish and secular.
Kerem School celebrated its 60th anniversary in June 2008. Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks spoke about its contribution. In June 2018 the 70th anniversary was celebrated. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis praised Kerem’s high standards. He noted its contribution to the next generation of Jewish life. For 75 years Kerem School has educated thousands of pupils. Many have achieved great success. The school offers a broad intensive secular and Jewish education. It aims to foster a positive commitment to Orthodox Judaism. It promotes a strong sense of identity with Israel and the Jewish people. Children of former pupils even grandchildren attend Kerem School. It’s a testament to its longevity and legacy. Kerem School continues to thrive a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders and leaders.