Immanuel College unveils new leadership team as it prepares for major expansion

Immanuel College has appointed a new chief executive and interim headteacher as it sets out plans to strengthen its educational offering and prepare students for a rapidly changing future.

The Bushey-based independent Jewish school announced that Rabbi Cobi Ebrahimoff will become its new chief executive officer, while Christopher Jones will take up the role of interim headteacher from the start of the new academic year in September.

The appointments mark the beginning of a new leadership structure as the college looks to build on recent growth while expanding its academic and pastoral provision.

Rabbi Ebrahimoff joins from The Rabbi Sacks Legacy, where he serves as UK Director of Education. He has more than two decades of experience in Jewish education in Britain and Israel, including previous leadership roles at the Independent Jewish Day School and the United Synagogue’s Tribe youth movement. He also continues to serve as Executive Headteacher of King Solomon School in Israel.

Christopher Jones arrives from North Bridge House Senior School in London, where he is currently headteacher. He succeeds Dan Endlar, who led Immanuel College through a period of significant change.

Alongside the leadership changes, the college has outlined a series of new initiatives aimed at preparing pupils for higher education and future careers. These include introducing artificial intelligence into teaching and learning, creating a dedicated sixth form centre, expanding project-based learning and enhancing its careers programme through guaranteed internship opportunities for sixth form students.

The school also said it would continue investing in bursaries, scholarships and occasional places to widen access.

Rabbi Ebrahimoff said: “I am honoured to be joining the College at such an exciting time and look forward to working with colleagues, students, parents, alumni and supporters to build on its many strengths and help shape its future.

“Our ambition is to provide an outstanding education in which academic excellence is complemented by a deep sense of Jewish identity, values and community. We want every student to leave Immanuel with the confidence to succeed in today’s world and a strong connection to their heritage.”

Jones said: “Immanuel College has a long-standing commitment to educational excellence and student development. I am delighted to be joining the College and look forward to working with staff and students to ensure every young person is supported and challenged to achieve their full potential.

“As the College looks to the future, I am excited to help strengthen an environment in which young people are equipped not only to excel academically, but also to become confident leaders and active contributors to society.”

The college will present its future plans to current and prospective families, alumni and members of the wider community at an open evening on 29 June.