JFS headteacher: ‘We prayed for Nathanel Young and his family and we prayed for all still missing’

The headteacher of JFS has told Jewish News of the support it is putting in place for students during the war in Israel.

Dr David Moody says: “We prayed for Nathanel Young and his family and we prayed for those who are still missing. There are too many stories of heartache across the school and to everyone affected, we embrace them with nothing but love.”

As reported by Jewish News, 20-year old Corporal Nathanel Young, a former pupil at JFS, was murdered on Saturday October 7th by Hamas terrorists.

Moody continued: “JFS is a tight-knit community and it could not have been more evident than yesterday when the school stood side-by-side in prayer yesterday, with a collective arm around the shoulders of those students who needed our support the most. In separate discussion groups across the school, the depth of that care is deeply moving to watch.”

He says the students at JFS “continue to amaze me with their empathy and sensitivity. The way in which they look after each other is incredible to watch as a headteacher and I am very proud of them. My hope is that our students feel well supported by all of those seeking to keep them safe.”

JFS  has twelve full-time counsellors and coaches and “anyone in distress knows that they have a safe space in their care. The school is also taking part in the Noa Girls online seminar this evening, as well as a CST-run session tomorrow evening alongside the personal safety assemblies that we have run for all students.”

Dr Moody says JFS is “extremely fortunate to work hand-in-hand with CST who have been exceptional. From extra security presence to training for our bus drivers and increased surveillance, we are confident that both the school and the travel routes to it, are as safe as they can possibly be.”

“In times of crisis, you see the true nature of something. And the nature of JFS is a school that is steadfast in its solidarity and fierce in its care. I have seen many things as a headteacher, but watching our students respond on Monday, with love in times of such horrific violence is something that will stay with me for a long time.”

“JFS has been a place of refuge for Jewish families for nearly 300 years. We will do everything in our power to support our families through these dark times and I have nothing but praise for the community’s response which has been incredible.”