A private Jewish primary school in Hampstead Garden Suburb has promoted its former deputy head to headteacher.

Alyson Burns has been appointed permanently in charge of Kerem School, in Norrice Lea, having started the year as acting headteacher in September.

She joined the school, located within the grounds of Norrice Lea synagogue, as deputy head and a year four teacher in 2009 and then spent two years as headteacher at Kerem Early Years Unit – integrating the school with the nursery.

David Wolfson QC, chairman of governors, said: “We are delighted to appoint Miss Burns as Kerem’s headteacher and are confident that she will be provide inspirational leadership to the school, its pupils and staff.”

Miss Burns added: “Kerem School is a very unique and special community school, where every child is valued and where we aspire for each child to reach their full potential.

“I feel privileged and honoured to be given the opportunity to work with the children, staff, parents, governors, and the community to build on the school’s strengths.

“We will continue to work together to deliver the highest quality teaching and learning and a wide range of activities that challenge the students and meet their individual needs.”