The Jewish Learning Exchange has raised £1.5 million from an “all or nothing” telethon.

Its goal was to raise £375,000 in 24 hours, with three matching sets of donors agreeing to give a combined £1.125 million on condition of the target being met.

In the event, the £375,000 mark was reached with just eight minutes to spare. More than 1,300 people donated.

“The 35 JLE staff and their many students are elated by the outpouring of support for the work that we do,” said JLE chief executive Rabbi Benjy Morgan.

Based in Golders Green, JLE educates those in their late teens, students in London and the provinces, young professionals and young marrieds. It is planning a major expansion.