On the 11-acre grounds of Caldecote Towers, a Grade II listed 19th-century mansion, stands a Jewish school that punches well above the weight of its size. Founded in 1990 by Lord Jakobovits (then Chief Rabbi), the school has spent three-plus decades building a reputation for academic rigour alongside a clear Modern Orthodox Jewish identity. Walk onto the campus and the blend becomes immediately apparent. Boys wear kippot alongside blazers. Formal assembly includes elements of Jewish learning. Yet GCSE results rival secular independent schools, with just under 70% of grades reaching the A* to A bracket. The school, now under the leadership of Daniel Endlar (appointed Head in April 2025), occupies a distinctive niche: it refuses to choose between excellent secular education and serious Jewish commitment. The September 2024 ISI inspection confirmed the school meets all regulatory standards, with inspectors noting that pupils make good academic progress, some "rapid," and are being prepared to become "helpful and effective members of both contemporary society and within the full range of their Jewish heritage." The school serves around 450 pupils from age 10 to 18 across its senior school (the preparatory school is closing at the end of 2024-25). For families seeking an academically ambitious education with a strong Jewish ethos, this is genuinely distinctive territory.
Caldecote Towers dominates the skyline here, and deservedly so. Built around 1870 as a private mansion, it served as a Dominican convent before becoming a girls' school; now it houses the sixth form, senior leadership, bursary, and art and music departments. The building radiates solidity and history, yet nothing about the school feels musty or backward-looking. Modern additions have thoughtfully extended the campus; science laboratories, the Joyce King Theatre, a fitness suite, and all-weather surfaces for tennis and netball coexist with the period architecture.
The atmosphere is characterised by genuine warmth. Staff and pupils greet each other by name. The ISI inspection noted that pupils feel safe because leaders act on concerns quickly, and that teachers are "caring and compassionate." Behaviour has improved noticeably over recent years; the school introduced a revised discipline policy emphasising positive recognition alongside clear expectations, and observers comment that the shift towards rewarding kindness and consideration is working. One Jewish Chronicle reporter noted seeing "only examples of really good behaviour, cheerful pupils who all wish good morning" when walking the corridors.
Jewish identity is woven throughout, not compartmentalised. Daily prayer (tefillah) is observed according to Modern Orthodox practice. The school's official vision emphasises creating pupils who possess "an integrated personality whose Jewish identity is knowledgeable, secure and proud, as a spur to achievement and responsibility, and as a challenge to exemplary citizenship in a pluralist society." This is not generic multi-faith dialogue; it is a specific, theologically grounded approach to Modern Orthodoxy. Yet the school is explicitly non-selective on religious grounds at entry; you need not be Jewish to attend, and families of different faiths and traditions are welcomed. The ISI found that pupils "develop their self-esteem, confidence and resilience," and that "school policies, systems and the curriculum support the school's vision to equip pupils with the attributes of kindness, aspiration, responsibility and curiosity."
Immanuel College ranks 198th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 5% of schools. This positions the school comfortably within the "national high" tier of performance. Results have been consistently strong over successive years.
In the most recent cohort, 50% of GCSE grades achieved the A* (9) or 8 grade bands, whilst 69% reached A* to A (grades 9 to 7). These figures place Immanuel well above the England average of 54% achieving grade 9-7 across all subjects. The independent school context means detailed subject-by-subject breakdowns are not published as reliably as state school data, but inspectors confirmed that most pupils achieved GCSE and A-level results "in line with or above expectations," with some demonstrating rapid progress from their starting points.
The school offers both GCSE and IGCSE qualifications, providing flexibility in subject choice and assessment approach. Science is taught as three separate disciplines from the outset, reflecting the school's academic ambition. Pupils benefit from dedicated science laboratories equipped to modern standards. The English Department runs a formal debating society and Scrabble club, enriching analytical thinking beyond the curriculum. Drama is particularly strong; the school produces two major productions annually alongside a summer musical and a performing arts festival drawing up to 100 participants. This creative infrastructure directly supports GCSE and IGCSE success in English Literature, Drama, and Media Studies.
Photography is a standout subject. In the 2023 GCSE cohort, one Immanuel pupil achieved full marks in GCSE photography; the same occurred again in 2024. The school's annual Gottlieb Art Show is celebrated as a centrepiece of the artistic calendar, and the school was shortlisted for the Independent School of the Year Awards in both music and drama.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
78.29%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
69.13%
% of students achieving grades 9-7
The sixth form is thriving and growing. Immanuel ranks 174th in England for A-level results (FindMySchool ranking), sitting in the top 7%. At A-level, 78% of grades achieved A*, A or B, well above the England average of 47%. A quarter of all grades were A*, and a further 28% were A, indicating substantial achievement in the most rigorous qualifications.
In 2024, one student secured a place at Cambridge University, representing strong achievement in the most competitive university admissions context. The wider university landscape shows healthy progression; 50% of the 2024 leaver cohort progressed to university, whilst 11% entered employment. This mix reflects the school's non-selective admissions and its genuine commitment to serving families across the ability spectrum.
The sixth form has distinct identity and expectation. Entry to Lower Sixth requires GCSE results at grade 5 or above in English and mathematics, plus grade 6 or above in A-level subjects. The school operates a unique "Derech programme" (the Hebrew word for "path") which sits at the core of the sixth form experience, combining textual Jewish learning with hands-on experiences designed to deepen connection to heritage and encourage community involvement. This is not a token addition; it is a substantive, curriculum-integrated component of sixth form life.
Students are expected to lead initiatives. The Senior Prefect Team includes academic and pastoral leadership roles. The "Helping Hands" mentoring scheme pairs sixth formers with younger pupils. School societies operate under student leadership; these include the History and Politics Society, World Affairs Society, Psychology Society, Young Enterprise (which has enjoyed considerable success in regional business competitions in recent years), and the School Council. A Shevet Achim (School Charity) Committee is similarly student-led. This emphasis on responsibility and contribution extends to opportunities for Duke of Edinburgh Silver and Gold awards and the V Inspired volunteering scheme. For students who excel in specific areas, performing arts scholarships (drama and music) and academic scholarships are available at sixth form entry, valued between 10% and 25% fee reduction.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
78.29%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
69.13%
% of students achieving grades 9-7
Teaching quality is foundational to academic success here. The 2024 ISI inspection noted that "the majority of teaching encouraged children to apply what they know, take risks and think deeply," though inspectors also noted that "in a few lessons, teaching is not sufficiently engaging or challenging." This honest assessment reflects what all good schools experience; the overall picture is positive.
Staff expertise in individual subjects is clear. Head Daniel Endlar has an MChem and previously worked at Brentwood School in senior academic roles (including director of studies), as well as leading a department, bringing strong academic credibility. The school invests in specialist subject clinics beyond the standard curriculum; pupils access more than 30 subject clinics weekly, including dedicated Oxbridge examination preparation across multiple sub-subjects, general study skills, and discipline-specific clinics in subjects ranging from Art and Chemistry to Sociology and Spanish. This extended learning architecture directly supports university entrance, particularly for Oxbridge applications.
Jewish studies operate at A-level, with rigorous textual engagement. The curriculum integrates Biblical and Rabbinical sources, offering pupils detailed understanding of Jewish customs, practices, and philosophy. The school emphasises that this is not religious instruction in the narrowest sense; it is intellectual engagement with Jewish intellectual tradition. For sixth formers, optional Israel and Poland educational trips provide direct experiential learning, though these programmes are not mandatory.
The Sutton Trust analysis identified Immanuel College as placing in the top 2% of schools in England in terms of student success gaining admission to the 13 most competitive research universities. This extraordinary statistic reflects genuine achievement in the most selective admissions landscape. One Cambridge student in 2024, whilst numerically modest, represents success at the apex of selectivity. The school publishes limited specific destination data, but families should recognise that progression to selective universities is an established pattern here.
Beyond Oxbridge, leavers progress to universities including Durham, Edinburgh, Bristol, and Exeter. Medical school entry remains particularly strong; the 2024 cohort included 12 medical students. For the sixth form, the dedicated "Options Beyond 18 Programme" provides individualised support whether students aim for university, apprenticeship, gap year, or immediate employment. The school has established careers networks with alumni and professionals, ensuring signposting extends into specialist fields.
For pupils exiting at GCSE (approximately 50% do), guidance emphasises local state grammar schools (particularly Reading School and Kendrick School, which are selective), co-educational sixth form options, and sixth form colleges. The school acknowledges that not every family seeks to continue within the independent sector, and transition support is provided accordingly.
Immanuel College operates over 30 named clubs and societies across the school, with sixth formers expected to lead many of them. This is not a generic extracurricular offering; the breadth and structure reflect genuine investment.
Music is genuinely central to school life. The school runs a Chapel Choir (which performs at termly assemblies and occasional external events), a Senior School Choir, a Shabbaton Choir (performing at charitable events), and an Orchestra. Instrumental tuition is available in piano, guitar, and violin; private singing and LAMDA (drama) lessons supplement group provision. Pupils in Years 7-9 receive dedicated drama and music lessons weekly, building foundational performance confidence. Two major dramatic productions run annually, with a summer musical adding a third significant performance opportunity. The annual Performing Arts Festival showcases individual student work; the Purim Talent Show celebrates diverse talents in less formal settings. At A-level, music scholarship opportunities reward students demonstrating excellence and commitment, and performing arts scholars are expected to contribute actively to school productions.
The physical infrastructure supports this emphasis. The Joyce King Theatre provides a dedicated, well-equipped performance space. Caldecote Towers houses dedicated music practice rooms and art studios in the upper floors.
The relatively modest size of the campus (11 acres) means sports facilities are described as "good rather than lavish," though investment has been sustained. Pupils access an all-weather surface for tennis and netball, cricket and football pitches, a fitness suite, and a spacious well-equipped gymnasium. Sports clubs operate in football, basketball, tennis, badminton, plus netball, played "with enthusiasm and success," according to independent observers. Inter-house competitions in winter football and netball are firm fixtures. The annual Shavuot Sports Day celebrates whole-school participation. Maccabi UK provides additional competitive opportunities through regional and national tournaments. As with academic work, the expectation is that all pupils engage in PE and sports; this is not optional, and the school's values emphasise discipline, teamwork, and physical wellbeing.
The English Department runs a formal Debating Society and Scrabble club, with sixth formers leading sessions at lunchtime. The History and Politics Society promotes deeper engagement with historical analysis and contemporary affairs. The Psychology Society engages pupils interested in the discipline beyond the A-level curriculum. Young Enterprise has proven particularly successful in regional business competitions in recent years, combining entrepreneurial learning with practical commercial challenge. These societies are not token offerings; sixth form leaders curate content and recruit participants meaningfully.
In the preparatory school, club offerings extend from technology and journalism to gardening and art, an explicit effort to widen exposure. Senior school pupils engage with visual arts through the annual Gottlieb Art Show and dedicated art scholarships at sixth form entry. Photography receives particular emphasis given the school's GCSE success. The school actively recruits pupils with visual arts talent through its Art and Photography scholarship pathway for sixth form entry.
Hebrew language learning is integral to Jewish studies. Beyond the curriculum, the Shabbat experience is central; the school observes Shabbat ethos through termly Friday gatherings, and annual Shabbaton (residential Shabbat experience) develops students' engagement with Jewish observance and community. The Beit (the school's Jewish gathering space) functions as a focal point for learning, celebration, and spiritual life. Israel and Poland educational trips (for interested sixth formers) provide experiential learning in Jewish history and identity.
The Helping Hands mentoring scheme pairs senior pupils with younger students, building pastoral responsibility. The School Council provides democratic representation. Shevet Achim (the charity committee) coordinates community service; volunteers participate in weekly gardening in local community projects, fulfilling the school's commitment to civic responsibility and active citizenship.
The school is explicit that involvement in the co-curricular programme, both as leader and participant, improves university entrance prospects and career opportunity. This is not hyperbole; medical schools, law faculties, and Russell Group universities increasingly value demonstrated leadership and sustained engagement beyond academics. Immanuel's structure, where sixth formers lead rather than passively participate, directly addresses these institutional expectations.
£16,359 per annum (£5,453 per term); rising to £16,980 per annum (£5,660 per term) from 1 January 2026.
£28,630 per annum (£9,543.60 per term); rising to £29,718 per annum (£9,906 per term) from 1 January 2026.
All fees are inclusive of VAT at 20%, added by government from 1 January 2025.
£1,076 to £1,388 per term, depending on distance band. The school operates a comprehensive bus network serving North London suburbs and Hertfordshire, making accessibility from surrounding areas straightforward. Families should budget separately for coach fees.
£418 per term (compulsory for pupils up to Year 11).
Scholarships are merit-based awards available at 11+ and Lower Sixth entry. Categories include Academic, Music, Drama, Art/Photography, and Entrepreneurship (Innovation Champions). Scholarships typically provide 10-25% fee reduction and carry expectation of active participation in relevant programme (e.g., drama scholars must contribute to school productions).
Bursaries are means-tested financial support available to any family. Contact the school directly for enquiries. This is not automatically publicised, recognising that families may feel uncomfortable enquiring; parents should not assume cost is prohibitive without exploring bursary potential.
Available to families with multiple pupils and to alumni families. Contact admissions for current rates.
Fees data coming soon.
Entry at Year 7 requires completion of the school's entrance examination, conducted typically in January for September entry. The exam assesses English, mathematics, and reasoning; example papers are published on the school website. The school is explicitly non-selective on religious grounds; families of any faith (or no faith) are welcome. The curriculum integrates Jewish studies as a discrete discipline, but religious observance is not a prerequisite for admission. This inclusive approach is genuine; the ISI inspectors found no barriers to admission based on faith background, and the school actively welcomes pupils from diverse family traditions.
Sixth form entry requires GCSE grade 5 or above in English and mathematics, plus grade 6 or above in intended A-level subjects. Entrance examinations in specific subjects may be required depending on subject choice. Scholarship opportunities exist for students demonstrating exceptional academic potential or excellence in music, drama, art, or entrepreneurship (Innovation Champions). These scholarships carry prestige and typically 10-25% fee reduction.
Registration fee: £100 (including VAT). Acceptance deposit: £2,500.
Registration deadlines and key dates are published annually on the school website. Open days typically occur in September and October; prospective families are encouraged to visit during the school day to observe authentic atmosphere and pupil engagement.
Pastoral care is genuinely prioritised. The ISI noted that "leaders promote a culture in which safeguarding is prioritised," and "pupils feel safe because leaders act on any concerns." The school employs dedicated pastoral coordinators for behaviour and wellbeing, alongside a Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy DSL. Mental health support is explicit; the school provides dedicated resources and trained staff for pupils experiencing emotional difficulty. The structured form tutor system provides consistent adult relationships; form tutors meet pupils daily and act as first point of contact for families.
Bullying is taken seriously. While no school is immune from occasional incidents, the ISI confirmed that rare instances are "quickly and effectively addressed." The school has revised its behaviour policy over the past two years, with explicit emphasis on "consideration and kindness" alongside clear expectations. This philosophy extends to sanctions; the school aims to support behaviour change rather than purely punitive response.
Sixth form pupils have dedicated pastoral oversight, including the Director of Sixth Form and senior tutor. The Options Beyond 18 programme explicitly supports post-school transition planning, whether to university, apprenticeship, employment, or gap year.
8:30am to 3:30pm (standard school day); sixth form may have slightly extended day depending on timetable.
Available for primary-age pupils (Reception to Year 6); sessions run 7:30-8:30am and 3:30-5:30pm respectively. Additional charges apply. This provision is less relevant for this review's target secondary audience, but families should note availability if considering primary entry before closure.
Extensive coach network serving North London suburbs and Hertfordshire, with routes organised into distance bands for fare purposes. Families should clarify which route serves their location during admissions process.
Bushey railway station (Metropolitan Line) provides connection to central London and Watford; journey time to central London approximately 35 minutes. The school is accessible by car, though parking on campus is limited; many families use coach transport for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Prep School Closure: The preparatory school (Reception to Year 6) will close at the end of the 2024-25 academic year in response to financial pressures. Families considering primary entry should be aware that no Reception admissions will be processed from 2025 onwards. This signals genuine financial challenge across the independent Jewish school sector; parents should satisfy themselves that the senior school remains stable. The September 2024 ISI inspection was positive, and the new Head brings credible independent school experience, but this is material context.
Jewish Character is Central: This is not a school that accommodates Jewish culture as an add-on; it is authentically embedded in daily life. Davening (prayer) occurs daily. Shabbat is observed; pupils wear kippot in school (though not compulsory outside school). Religious studies is a discrete, rigorous subject. For families uncertain about immersion in Modern Orthodox Jewish practice, this should be carefully considered. The school welcomes families of all faiths, but they should approach with eyes open to the depth of religious commitment. This is a strength for families seeking exactly this integration; it could feel alienating for families wanting secular education with light cultural elements.
Selective University Progression, Not Automatic: While the school's track record with Oxbridge and Russell Group universities is genuinely impressive, this is not a guarantee. Success reflects both school quality and pupil ability. Families selecting Immanuel primarily on university aspiration should recognise that outcomes depend on individual aptitude and effort. The school's alumni network, university counselling, and competitive peer group all support strong applications.
Modest Fee Discount Compared to Equivalent Independents: At £28,630 per annum (£9,543 per term) for Years 7-13, fees are in the middle tier of London/Hertfordshire independent schools, not particularly discounted relative to secular alternatives. The Jewish studies curriculum, pastoral care, and community environment justify the pricing, but families expecting significant savings relative to non-faith independents will be disappointed.
Immanuel College occupies genuinely distinctive territory. It delivers academic outcomes equivalent to leading secular independent schools whilst maintaining an authentic, non-apologetic Jewish identity that is woven through every aspect of school life. For families seeking rigorous secular education paired with serious Jewish learning, strong pastoral care, and genuine community, this is difficult to replicate elsewhere. The ISI's recent confirmation that the school meets all standards, combined with consistent GCSE and A-level results in the top 5% in England and a demonstrated track record of university progression to Russell Group and Oxbridge, provides evidence of educational quality. The new Head, Daniel Endlar, brings substantial independent school experience and academic credentials. The school is honest about recent challenges (prep school closure, declining pupil numbers from peak), but these reflect wider sector pressures rather than institutional failure.
Best suited to families within reasonable coach distance (North London suburbs, Hertfordshire) who value Jewish identity as integral to education rather than supplementary. Families seeking Jewish cultural elements without the depth of religious observance may find the pervasive theological framework feels uncomfortable; this is worth testing through school visits and conversations with current families. For those it suits, Immanuel delivers confidence, ambition, responsibility, and kindness, the school's stated attributes, alongside demonstrable academic excellence.
Yes. The school ranks 198th in England for GCSE results (top 5%, FindMySchool ranking) and 174th for A-levels (top 7%), placing it among the strongest independent schools in the region. The September 2024 ISI inspection confirmed the school meets all regulatory standards and noted that pupils make good progress, some "rapid." The school achieved top 2% placement in Sutton Trust analysis for admission to the 13 most competitive research universities. Parents and pupils consistently report strong pastoral care, engaged teaching, and clear Jewish ethos.
Tuition fees for Years 7-13 are £28,630 per annum (£9,543.60 per term), rising to £29,718 per annum (£9,906 per term) from 1 January 2026. Fees are inclusive of VAT. Coach travel costs £1,076-£1,388 per term depending on distance band. Lunches cost £418 per term (compulsory to Year 11). Registration fee is £100; acceptance deposit is £2,500. Means-tested bursaries are available for families needing financial support; contact admissions directly to discuss eligibility.
The school is non-selective on religious grounds; families of any faith are welcome. Entry at Year 7 is determined by performance in the entrance examination (English, mathematics, reasoning) typically held in January. The school is not highly academically selective relative to leading London independents; it serves families across the ability spectrum. Sixth form entry requires GCSE grade 5+ in English and mathematics, plus grade 6+ in intended A-level subjects.
Immanuel is authentically Modern Orthodox in orientation, established by Chief Rabbi Lord Jakobovits in 1990 to integrate rigorous secular education with Jewish learning. Daily prayer (tefillah) is observed. Jewish studies is taught as a discipline subject, covering Biblical texts, Rabbinical tradition, and contemporary Jewish practice. Sixth formers access the Derech programme, combining textual learning with experiential engagement. The school prepares pupils to be "members of both contemporary society and within the full range of their Jewish heritage." This is not cultural Judaism alone; it is theological engagement. Families should be confident this aligns with their values before entry.
50% of the 2024 leaver cohort progressed to university; 11% entered employment. The school has demonstrated particular success with Oxbridge and Russell Group admissions; pupils regularly secure places at Cambridge, Durham, Edinburgh, Bristol, and Exeter. Medical school progression is notably strong (12 in 2024). The school publishes limited detailed destination data as an independent school; families should request current data directly from admissions if specific destination patterns are important to them.
The school operates over 30 clubs and societies, with sixth formers expected to lead many. Specific offerings include chapel choir, orchestra, debating society, history and politics society, young enterprise, and numerous sports (football, basketball, tennis, netball, badminton). Drama is particularly strong, with two major productions annually plus a summer musical and performing arts festival. Music scholarships recognise sustained excellence. The school explicitly links co-curricular involvement to university entrance improvement and career development. Clubs operate during lunchtimes and after school.
The ISI found that "pupils develop their self-esteem, confidence and resilience" and that staff are "caring and compassionate." The school employs dedicated pastoral coordinators for behaviour and wellbeing, plus a trained Designated Safeguarding Lead. Form tutors meet pupils daily and provide consistent pastoral relationships. Mental health support resources are available; pupils report good access to wellbeing staff. The revised behaviour policy emphasises "consideration and kindness" alongside clear expectations, promoting positive conduct rather than purely punitive responses.
Get in touch with the school directly
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