Scathing Ofsted report on Hackney school

A STRICTLY Orthodox independent boys’ school in Hackney has been taking pupils up to year seven, even though it is not registered to accept children beyond the age of five.

The Bnei Zion Community School, which is registered for 60 pupils, now has a roll of 151, Ofsted reported this week.

Ranking it inadequate for the second time in three years, Ofsted said the standard of education had not improved since the last inspection.

As a result of the previous inspection, the Department for Education withheld approval for the school’s request to increase numbers and the age range.

But Ofsted noted that “over the years, the school has continued to expand and now admits pupils up to year seven. The school does not provide suitable changing accommodation or shower facilities for pupils aged 11 or over, in line with the independent school standards.”

Although inspectors found improvements in the learning of phonics, they said boys had not made good progress, particularly in English and maths.

Although pupils learned about other faiths, the school’s leaders did not promote respect for “all of the protected characteristics” outlined in equality law, which include sexual orientation and gender reassignment.

Another Stamford Hill educational organisation enjoyed a happier Ofsted report. The Beis Chinuch Lebonos Nursery was classified as good, providing a “welcoming and caring environment” and enabling children to make good progress.