General
How will I know if JCoSS is a success?
First, we have appointed an outstanding head teacher, selected after a global hunt from a strong shortlist of around a dozen candidates. He has developed a first rate school with a brand new building, equipped with the very latest technology, on a beautiful site on the edge of the greenbelt.
Why do we need another Jewish school?
There is no existing Jewish secondary school like JCoSS. JCoSS is a school for the whole Jewish community - Orthodox and Progressive, religious and secular.
What do you mean by inclusive?
The school is inclusive in both its admissions policy and its ethos.
Is JCoSS a selective school?
No. JCoSS is a non-selective, state school, with no entry examination.
Does JCoSS charge fees?
No. JCoSS is free. However, in common with the vast majority of faith and particularly Jewish schools, those that can afford to will be asked to make a voluntary contribution to cover special costs such as security and Jewish education.
What is the difference between JCoSS and other Jewish secondary schools?
JCoSS is the only Jewish secondary school in the UK to welcome on an equal basis Jews of all backgrounds, beliefs and - in partnership with Norwood - abilities.
What’s wrong with the existing schools?
JCoSS makes no criticism of the existing Orthodox Jewish schools. Some parents would, however, never consider an Orthodox education, while some are still excluded by their admission policies. Our aim is to include rather than exclude and to be welcoming to all Jewish, whatever their backgrounds, beliefs or abilities.
Isn’t JCoSS really a Reform/Progressive School?
No, not at all. JCoSS is a cross-communal school not Reform, Liberal, Masorti, Charedi or anything else.
Is there the demand for JCoSS?
There is a very significant demand for JCoSS. There are 150 students in Year 7 who come from every section of the Jewish community, reflecting established demand for three feeder schools that share our ethos, Akiva, Clore Shalom and Clore Tikva.
Does JCoSS damage demand for the existing Jewish schools?
JCoSS has increased the number of places available so that the choice now lies with the parent and not the school. All schools will have to ensure the highest standards if they are going to survive in this competitive market, which is in everyone's long term interest.