Philanthropist Leo Noé was honoured for his 20 years of charitable work at special needs charity Kisharon's fundraising dinner at the Hilton Park Lane in central London on Sunday.

More than 650 guests also heard Education Secretary Michael Gove praise the "divine" work of Kisharon, which runs a nursery and school and offers support and activities for children and adults with moderate to severe learning difficulties. Lord Levy and and Hendon MP Matthew Offord also attended the dinner, which raised £630,000.

The charity's new language therapy programme in the Golders Green-based school and nursery is to be named after Kisharon trustee Mr Noé, in recognition of his long-time contribution.

Adult service user Ilana Ellison presented a certificate of dedication to Mr Noé. Ms Ellison has been working one day a week at property firm F&C Reit, where Mr Noé is a founding partner. He said that Ms Ellison "gives us much more than we give her".

Chairman Philip Goldberg praised "the inimitable way [Leo Noé] performs his numerous charitable works, the selfless giving of his time, the exhaustive manner in which he familiarises himself and becomes totally involved with each and every project he undertakes".

In his address, Mr Gove stressed the government's commitment to ensuring that "every Jewish child has the right to a Jewish education, whether it be at primary or secondary school or in special education".

Speaking afterwards, chief executive Beverley Jacobson expressed delight that "so many people had come out for the cause.

"They were so full of praise for the Kisharon staff, who have had a very tough year because of the budget cuts.

"It is important for them to see they are appreciated."