A Chasidic school in Stamford Hill, which is battling against a council order to vacate its premises, has passed its latest Ofsted inspection.
Hackney Council says Talmud Torah London does not have planning permission to use the site it has occupied for the last six years as a school and must leave because neighbours have complained of the noise.
But an appeal against the order brought on behalf of pupils at the independent boys school has been lodged at the Court of Appeal.
The school, which has 120 pupils aged from five to 14, was previously ranked as good by Ofsted. Under a new inspection framework, schools are no longer awarded a headline grade but TTL reached the expected standard in all six areas examined.
“Pupils make steady progress from their starting points because leaders and staff understand their needs and provide structured support,” inspectors reported.
“Many arrive with gaps in prior learning. The school ensures that pupils receive effective support to help them build knowledge securely over time. As a result, pupils gain confidence and show growing understanding across subjects as they move through the school.”
The school’s leaders “create an orderly and respectful environment where pupils feel safe, valued and ready to learn.”
Its work was shaped by “an unwavering vision rooted in high expectations and care”.
On personal development, inspectors observed that pupils “respect others’ views and recognise that people may live differently or hold different beliefs.
“Pupils talk confidently about respecting different family structures and backgrounds. This prepares them well for life beyond the school while maintaining a strong connection to their own identity and community.”
Pupils were encouraged to try their best because staff encourage them and support them to succeed.
“Enrichment opportunities, including visits, practical activities such as design and technology work, and many clubs, broaden pupils’ experiences and help them develop new interests.”
A growing emphasis on preparing pupils for future pathways included early
exposure to careers through planned visits and experiences.
TTL pupils, Ofsted said, “experience a deep sense of belonging within a close-knit, welcoming community where everyone feels 'as one’”.
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