Immanuel College has announced the first major appointment to its preparatory school, which will take in its initial 40 pupils in September 2011.
Natasha Fisher will move from a job in the junior department of South Hampstead High to become head of reception and year one. She previously taught at the Mathilda Marks Kennedy and Hasmonean primaries.
Ms Fisher said her challenge was to ensure that the "early years live up to the glowing reputation that the school has built for itself".
Immanuel head Philip Skelker believed she would bring "an ideal combination of experience in the maintained and independent sectors as well as in Jewish and non-Jewish education to the new preparatory school.
"She will be taking up the post in April 2011."
I want to ensure the early years live up to the school's glowing reputation
Eighty parents have so far registered interest in sending children to the prep school, which will start with two classes.