Ethos, Values and Mission

Ethos and Values

Pardes House is aligned with the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations of the United Kingdom. We derive our ethos and values from the timeless values and teachings of the Torah, as transmitted through orthodox Jewish tradition.

Our pupils are expected to abide by these values, which are emphasised in the school’s ‘Magna Carta of Rights and Responsibilities’ and in daily practise. Our Va’ad HaChinuch (Rabbinic board) interpret and rule on all matters relating to the applicability of these values and teachings. The Governing Body and Senior Leadership Team aim to follow the direction of the Va’ad HaChinuch in all matters.

Mission

The mission of the school is to synthesise the religious requirements of the Va’ad HaChinuch with the highest possible standards as set out by the National Curriculum. In providing a high quality Jewish and secular educational experience, we prepare our pupils for their academic and personal development through secondary school and beyond and ensure they are equipped to successfully live a strict Torah-observant life and excel in their lives in the world. Our pupils are taught to value truth, honesty, respect for everyone, including the country they live in and its history, a lifelong love of learning and to develop great self-discipline.

All of this takes place in a safe, caring, healthy and well-structured learning environment, while promoting high standards of achievement and behaviour for all. Alongside this is our aim to build pupils’ resilience by teaching them to value truth, honesty, respect for everyone and develop a lifelong love of learning. Further, we believe it is our civic (as well as legal) duty to prevent radicalisation by promoting Fundamental British Values in the curriculum and elsewhere in school life.

As part of our mission and through a range of experiences, we commit to:

  • Giving our pupils a love of Torah learning and practice.
  • Embedding our pupils with sense of social responsibility and an appreciation that these are fundamental to all aspects of life.
  • Ensuring that pupils reach the highest possible standards in their קודש (Jewish) and חול (Secular) studies.
  • Encouraging positive attitudes and exemplary behaviour in pupils in order to develop high self-esteem and confidence.
  • Pupils will become progressively more independent and responsible members of the school community.
  • Helping our pupils develop maturity and greater self-awareness, to understand and respect the rights of others.
  • Developing links with the wider community of which the school is part.
  • Making every second count!