Former Hasmonean headteacher Beverley Perin dies at 65

Her approach to behavioural challenges was equally compassionate — she consistently sought to understand their underlying causes, noting that often, misbehaviour was “a form of communication of a bigger issue.”

Born in London, Beverley was the eldest child of Anita and Louis Gilbert, and sister to Adrian Gilbert, who now lives in Israel. The family were active members of the Hounslow Jewish community, where Beverley's lifelong commitment to Jewish values and education first took root. As a teenager, she was an active member of FZY (The Federation of Zionist Youth), an experience that shaped her enduring dedication to Jewish communal leadership.

Beverley attended Notting Hill and Ealing High School for Girls before earning her BA in French language and literature at University College London. Her passion for education was evident even during her university years, when she taught Jewish studies at Ealing Synagogue Cheder — an experience that demonstrated the outstanding commitment to Jewish education that would define her career.

After completing her teacher training, Beverley began her professional journey as a French teacher at King’s Langley High School. Her subsequent move to Hasmonean Girls High School would establish her legacy as one of the most influential educators in the Jewish community. Initially a French teacher, Beverley rose rapidly through the ranks, becoming deputy head and then headmistress in quick succession. In doing so, she transformed the school with her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to educational excellence.

Rabbi David Meyer, who worked closely with Beverley, described her with deep admiration: “Her unwavering love and dedication to Jewish education and her students, her clear vision for how schools should be led, and her ability to inspire young people to reach their potential were extraordinary. She had wonderful interpersonal skills and built close bonds with both students and staff alike.”

Rabbi Daniel Roselaar, who knew Beverley well, said: “Beverley was a vibrant personality who, while taking life’s responsibilities seriously, also loved to enjoy herself and have fun.” This balance of seriousness and warmth made her both an effective leader and a cherished friend.

Andrew McClusky, current CEO of Hasmonean Multi-Academy Trust, whom Beverley recruited as an English teacher in 2002, offered a deeply personal reflection on her mentorship: “She believed in me and carved a pathway for me to occupy the position that I hold today. She made us think we were better than we were—until we became the people she saw within us. Hers was a very special kind of gift.”

Beverley's influence extended far beyond Hasmonean. After her tenure as headmistress, she took on a leadership role at Academies Enterprise Trust, supporting schools across the UK that required intervention, and later served as a school inspector for Ofsted. Her reputation for excellence continued to flourish, with senior Ofsted inspectors describing her "passion for getting it right for children and her enduring love for her work”.

Beyond her professional achievements, Beverley was deeply committed to her family and community. She devoted much time to her parents in their later years and remained very close to her brother Adrian, who lives in Israel with his wife Michelle Mond and children. She shared a special bond with her three nieces—Adi, Amit, and Tamar—spending many holidays with them and taking great pride in their accomplishments.

Her generosity extended beyond family bonds; her warmth and inclusivity characterised all her relationships, creating an extended family of those who benefited from her care and guidance. A devoted member of Belmont Synagogue, she maintained strong connections and friendships throughout the Jewish community.

In addition to being an excellent teacher, Beverley's commitment to Jewish learning was similarly profound. Rabbi Roselaar recalled how “even during the painful months of her final illness, she continued reading and studying Rabbi Sacks' commentaries."

Her impact on former students and colleagues was profound and lasting. As one tribute noted, "Beverley Perin influenced so many young people and helped shape their future. She was indeed a leader, a woman of great integrity, moral courage and intellect, and gave strength to others to stand on their own."

Rabbi Meyer concluded his tribute with words that capture the sentiments of all who knew her: "Working with Beverley was always an honour and privilege. Her dedication to Jewish education, her care for each individual student, and her ability to inspire those around her made her an exceptional educator and leader. The impact of her work at Hasmonean and her contribution to Jewish education will be felt for generations to come."

Beverley's legacy is one of educational excellence combined with deep compassion. She understood that true education involved nurturing the whole person, not just academic achievement. Her ability to see potential in every student, to advocate for the vulnerable, and to maintain hope and humour in the face of challenges made her an exceptional educator and human being.

She is survived by her brother Adrian Gilbert and his family in Israel, and by the countless students, colleagues, and friends whose lives she enriched with her wisdom, kindness, and dedication.

Beverley Perin: born 24 April 24, 1959. Died 25 March 25, 2025