Lockdown wedding Charedi school has ‘made improvements’ says Ofsted

The Charedi school that was raided by police when it was used for an illegal lockdown wedding is now taking action over renting its premises, according to a new report.

Yesodey Hatorah Senior Girls’ School in Stamford Hill hit national headlines when a wedding was held there in January, attended by around 150 people in defiance of lockdown rules.

The school said at the time it was “absolutely horrified” by the event, which took place when its hall was leased by an external organisation.

Now Ofsted has found that the school’s governors are now taking action to improve oversight of the school’s lettings.

“More robust systems and procedures are now in place to ensure governors have direct responsibility for letting out the premises,” found the inspection in April. 

“Governors recognise that there is more work to do to ensure strong oversight.”

Ofsted noted that there had been changes to the governance of the school and improvements made since the “serious breach of the COVID-19 restrictions.”

Inspectors praised acting head Clare Neuberger on improvements made at the school – rated ‘Inadeqaute’ – saying she and staff “have worked hard to ensure that all pupils receive a broad education,” during the pandemic.

Following an outcry over the wedding held at the school, which saw two £10,000 fines issued, a Jewish News exposé revealed how other simchas had been taking place despite breaking strict Covid rules.