Tributes after JFS pupil’s sudden death

Jewish students across London have reacted with shock and sadness at the devastating news of the sudden and unexpected death of JFS student Oli Leigh.

The popular pupil attended Yavneh College in Borehamwood until last year, where his brother is studying for his A-levels.

Simon Appleman, Acting Headteacher of JFS said:“The whole JFS community is shocked by the sudden death of Oli Leigh.

“Oli was an extremely outgoing and popular member of our school community and his passing has therefore impacted on students and staff across the entire school.

“We express our heartfelt condolences to Oli’s family.”

Yavneh headteacher Spencer Lewis said: “We are really devastated by the news. Oliver was a pupil here until last year and his brother is in our 6th Form. We will hold some kind of a memorial in the coming days.”

The youngster was known to be a keen sportsman and in 2015 was congratulated by the college for his work volunteering to help at charity event Jewish Child’s Day held at Allianz Rugby Club.

Maccabi GB chief executive, Martin Berliner. paid respects to Oli, saying: “Everyone at Maccabi GB is shocked and saddened by the tragic news of Oliver’s untimely passing. Oliver represented Team Maccabi GB at last year’s Maccabiah Games as a goalkeeper in our Under 16 Futsal Squad.  Affectionately called Oli he was a key member of the team and served Maccabi Great Britain with great distinction at the World Games, the highest level of achievement for any amateur Jewish sportsperson.

“Oliver was also a participant on the Streetwise Alan Senitt Community Leadership Programme. Streetwise, a joint initiative between Maccabi GB and the Community Security Trust, work with the Alan Senitt Memorial Trust to deliver a social action community programme.”

“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Oli’s family.”

Maccabi London Lions also paid tribute, saying they “are very saddened to learn of the sudden passing of our talented Under 16 goalkeeper Oli Leigh. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad and difficult time.