The Yael Foundation
Leeds Schools Make UK History With Landmark Yael Foundation Funding
Leeds Jewish Free School (LJFS) and Brodetsky Primary School have become the first schools in the United Kingdom to be awarded major funding from the international Yael Foundation — a milestone moment set to transform Jewish education in Leeds for generations to come.
The Yael Foundation, known globally for supporting Jewish educational excellence and strengthening community-based learning, works with schools across the world to elevate Jewish studies, Hebrew language teaching, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) provision. Its mission centres on empowering schools with resources, training, and long-term strategic investment that builds high‑quality, thriving learning environments.
Following a rigorous application and collaboration process, LJFS and Brodetsky Primary have secured funding to enhance Jewish education at every stage — from early years through to secondary school — ensuring children in Leeds receive an enriched, future‑focused learning experience grounded in Jewish values and community identity.
The funding will be used to strengthen Jewish learning, expand STEM opportunities, and further uplift Hebrew teaching across both schools. The initiative is designed not only to ensure Brodetsky remains the number one choice for Jewish families, but also to create a seamless educational journey where Brodetsky pupils confidently progress into Leeds Jewish Free School.
This historic partnership marks a shared commitment to long‑term growth, educational excellence, and a united Jewish future in Leeds.
Charlie Kelsey, Executive Headteacher of both schools, celebrated the announcement:
“This partnership represents an extraordinary moment in the history of Jewish education in Leeds. The Yael Foundation’s belief in our vision allows us to expand our ambition, strengthen the quality of teaching, and ensure every child in our care benefits from world‑class learning rooted in our community’s values.”
Sagi Yechezkel , Head of School at LJFS, added:
“Our students deserve the very best, and this investment allows us to provide exactly that. The Yael Foundation’s support enables us to enrich our curriculum, deepen our Jewish studies, and offer cutting‑edge opportunities in science and technology. This is a proud moment for our staff, our students, and the entire community.”
Governors from both schools have also expressed strong support, praising the collaborative work that has taken place over many months to secure this opportunity. They emphasised their commitment to leading the schools into a bold future with passion, resilience, and a shared focus on educational excellence.
Becoming part of the Yael Foundation family brings more than funding — it connects Leeds to a worldwide network of expertise, innovation, and partnership. Both schools look forward to benefitting from the Foundation’s knowledge, training programmes, and global educational community.
This moment signals a new chapter for Jewish education in Leeds: one strengthened by partnership, guided by shared values, and powered by a renewed commitment to excellence for every child and every family.
