Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, the dean of the London School of Jewish Studies, is to be its first holder of the Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought.

The new post has been established in memory of the late Emeritus Chief Rabbi, a former principal and president of the Orthodox college, who died just over a year ago.

Announcing the honour, LSJS said, "This exciting new role will give Rabbi Dr Zarum the opportunity to teach, write and publicly amplify much of the teachings of one of our generation’s greatest rabbis."

Rabbi Zarum said, “It is the honour of my life to spread the teachings of Rabbi Sacks, may his memory be a blessing, and to take the opportunity of this new appointment to focus further on teaching, writing and sharing in this wonderful tradition of ours.”

LSJS expressed its gratitude to the Zandan family from Austin, Texas for inaugurating the new post. Dr Peter Zandan said, "We very much want to keep Rabbi Sacks’ work and impact growing through our support of LSJS and the work of Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum - a leader who will represent, communicate and build on the work of Rabbi Sacks for future generations.”

Lady Elaine Sacks said “At LSJS, Rabbi Dr Zarum has been a colleague and student of my dear husband for more years than I can remember. He is an old and dear friend and is the perfect choice for this Sacks Chair of modern Jewish Thought."

Joanne Greenaway, LSJS chief executive said, “We are honoured at LSJS to be continuing the legacy of a Torah giant who played such a pivotal role in the development of our institution and our outlook."

The college has also welcomed its new head of adult education, Michael Rainsbury, who gained his MA at the school and did his teacher training there.

A former teacher at Kantor King Solomon High School, he has previously been associate director at Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, national director of Bnei Akiva in the UK and tour guide for JRoots, which connects young British Jews with their heritage.