Dr Alan Shaw is to retire as headteacher of Hasmonean Primary School in Hendon at the end of the summer term after more than 30 years as head of a Jewish school.

Dr Shaw, who turned 65 in October, joined Hasmonean eight years ago, having previously served as head of Moriah Jewish Day School in Pinner and Ilford Jewish Primary School.

Dan Sacker, chairman of Hasmonean’s governors, said, "We have been privileged to have such an experienced headteacher leading our school.

“This was recognised by Ofsted in their most recent report and has been especially evident during the past year as the situation in relation to Covid has become increasingly challenging.”

Throughout his tenure, Dr Shaw, he said, had “demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the school and staff. His love for the children and his determination to help them achieve has been clear since the day he joined the school.”

Dr Shaw said it had been “a privilege and an honour to have been at the helm of the Hasmonean Primary School and to have worked with outstanding governors, staff, parents and pupils.”

After 33 years as head of three  “amazing schools,” he said, “I have been extremely fortunate and blessed.”