Established in 1998 at Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue with just one class, Hertsmere Jewish Primary School moved to Radlett in September 1999.
The school was officially named the “Joy and Stanley Cohen Hertsmere Jewish Primary School” as a mark of recognition of the generosity the couple showed in making the school a reality and we began with two Reception classes and a Year 1 class of pupils.
In January 2000, the school admitted the first intake of nursery pupils.
HJPS was officially opened by the late Prince Philip, who unveiled a commemorative plaque in the school’s main hall. This marked the culmination of many years of hard work by a dedicated steering committee, who oversaw the development of the school building on Watling Street to become Hertfordshire’s first state Jewish primary school.
The then Chief Rabbi, Lord Jonathan Sacks, described the school as a ‘magnificent achievement’.
Over the following years, the school continued to expand and was at full capacity by 2006.
Under the guidance of the first Headteacher, Mrs Bazak, the school developed a reputation for excellence. In 2010, Mr Isaacs became the school’s second Headteacher.
Mrs Rita Alak-Levi joined HJPS as Deputy Head in 2017 and became Headteacher in 2019.
At the beginning of 2023, a consultant from the Local Authority reviewed the school. Under Mrs Alak-Levi’s leadership, HJPS was judged to have a calm and caring environment, with a strong focus on teaching and learning.
In March 2024, HJPS had its first Ofsted inspection since becoming a member of the Jewish Community Academy Trust, receiving a rating of “Good” in all six outcomes. The inspectors observed a “happy and inclusive culture” with a “vibrant buzz and community spirit around the school”.