Fun has been had by all across Kisharon Langdon. Pupils at Tuffkid Nursery and Kisharon Noé School enjoyed preparing and celebrating Purim with themed activities that all the children enjoyed.
People Kisharon Langdon support packed and sold hundreds of Mishloach Manot and ‘make your own hamantaschen sets’ as part of a Purim social enterprise project and they enjoyed dressing up, making hamantashen and hearing the megillah. Each person received an easy read booklet about Purim and its laws and customs and have worked through the book for the past couple of weeks.
Many volunteers and people the charity support took part in a fundraising ‘Bucket’ collection where funds raised will go towards supporting the charity. Bucket collectors hit the streets with more locations than ever this year including Edgware, Canons Corner, Bushey, Borehamwood, Radlett, Temple Fortune, Finchley, Hendon and Golders Green.
Excitement, joy and unity filled the air at The Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School, A Loftus Learning Centre as pupils, parents and staff came together for a truly special Siddur Party – an event designed to celebrate and enhance the accessibility of davening for every child, regardless of ability.
Recognising the importance of meaningful and inclusive prayer, Kisharon Noé School unveiled two brand-new, tailor-made siddurim at the event. One focuses on sensory davening, while the other features pictorial representations of the songs. Both siddurim are vibrant, engaging and feature PECS images, ensuring that all pupils can connect with tefillah in a way that is both accessible and inspiring. Additionally, phonetic transliterations in the siddurim allow non-Jewish staff members to actively support the children in their daily prayers.
Brocha Gutstein shares the reason she created the siddur, “Davening is an important part of the day, I realised that having put together so many different siddurim over the years, our children needed something special for themselves and thus started the two years in the making of this siddur”.
The Siddur Party itself was a joyous occasion. Children dressed smartly, proudly wearing siddur themed hats they had decorated in preparation for the event. Parents were warmly welcomed as they watched their children receive their siddurim, marking a significant milestone in their Jewish learning. The room was alive with song, davening and dancing, creating a true atmosphere of simcha.
For the younger classes, props were incorporated to make the davening experience even more immersive and engaging. Meanwhile, the older pupils had the mitzvah of laying tefillin and taking the Torah from the ark, deepening their connection to their heritage.
Reflecting on the event, Head of Kodesh, Eitan Kohn, shared: “The siddur party event was incredibly special, with a historic energy to it. The smiles on the pupils’ faces when they received their new siddurim said it all. Siddur parties are a right-of-passage in many schools, in presenting our pupils with a siddur that they can use and enjoy, reinforces that their davening is as important as anyone else’s and that they too deserve a siddur on the communal bookshelf. This is a message that is so powerful for our pupils and it is important for everyone in the community to understand this as well”.
This milestone event stands as a testament to Kisharon Noé School’s unwavering commitment to inclusion, proving that no matter a child’s ability, they can engage in meaningful tefillah.
Kisharon Langdon participated in the Cross Community Zone Challenge, a six-month programme led by the United Synagogue for 40 children in Years 8 and 9. Kisharon Langdon led a morning on Social Action and Purim, fostering understanding and inclusion for individuals with learning disabilities. Twelve adults supported by Kisharon Langdon and their support staff also attended.
The event opened with Rachel Ucko, Head of Jewish Living and Community at Kisharon Langdon, outlining the organisation’s vital work. Attendees heard firsthand from individuals supported by Kisharon Langdon, gaining insight into their daily lives and achievements.
Among the speakers was Salome, Head Girl of Kisharon Noé School, who shared her love for her school. Daniel, from Edgware, spoke about his job at New Chapters, while Charlotte, from Golders Green, proudly shared how she now works at a nursery and contributes as a taxpayer – a milestone historically out of reach for many with learning disabilities.
A hamantaschen baking workshop, led by Kisharon Langdon Learning and Development lead, Aviva Braunold, brought young participants and individuals supported by Kisharon Langdon together. They followed EasyRead instructions, reinforcing inclusive learning approaches. The session ended with Rabbi Luis from Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue leading Purim music and dancing.
Attendees shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, eager to join similar all-ability events in the future.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for young people to understand learning disabilities and autistic people, and to recognise the importance of inclusion,” reflected Rachel Ucko.
Kisharon Langdon remains committed to fostering inclusion and ensuring individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people are valued members of the community.
For 17 years, Richard thrived in a small family business, packing CDs and labelling packages. The routine tasks and peaceful environment suited him perfectly, providing a sense of comfort and fulfilment. When the business had to downsize, Richard lost his position—a difficult blow that left him determined to find the same type of job again.
However, the reality was tough; the world of packing CDs had moved on. Despite encouragement to explore new roles, Richard remained focused on recapturing the familiar experience he had loved for so long. With persistence and support from Kisharon Langdon’s employment team, Richard tried voluntary roles in warehouses, packing and scanning books. He worked hard and excelled, but his heart was still set on finding the perfect job match.
After seven years of searching, that breakthrough moment finally arrived. We connected with an employer seeking someone with Richard’s exact skill set and experience. A trial was arranged, and Richard’s dedication and attention to detail shone through. The result? A part-time paid position in a calm, small office—just the environment he had been dreaming of.
Now happily settled in his new role, Richard has rediscovered the joy of steady work in a setting that feels just right. His story is a testament to perseverance and finding the right fit, proving that with time, determination, and the right support, new opportunities can lead to even greater fulfilment.
Kisharon Langdon welcomed 830 guests to its inaugural fundraising dinner, marking 18 months since the transformative merger of two of the UK’s leading Jewish charities – in the largest and most significant Jewish charity merger in a generation.
The event, themed “Journey of a Lifetime”, showcased the charity’s vital role in supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people from early years through to adulthood, while raising significant funds for its life-changing work.
The merger, which created one of the largest Jewish charities in the UK, has enhanced Kisharon Langdon’s ability to deliver world-class care and education. Speaking at the dinner, Nicole Ronson Allalouf, Chair of the event, highlighted this achievement: “Kisharon Langdon is a wonderful example of our community coming together for the greater good. This merger has strengthened our ability to provide outstanding care and education, ensuring no one is left behind on their life’s journey.”
Reflecting on her personal connection to the cause, Nicole added: “Sometimes it feels like those who live with learning disabilities are the forgotten members of society. But Kisharon Langdon ensures no one is left to face these challenges alone. They are a family, treating everyone as equals and working tirelessly to help them thrive and reach their potential.”
The evening powerfully embodied Kisharon Langdon’s ethos of family and inclusion by involving the very people it supports. From welcoming guests to assisting in production and delivering toasts, their participation demonstrated how the charity empowers individuals to lead independent, meaningful lives. Throughout the evening, easy-read translations and Makaton signing of prayers and toasts were shared on the screen and on stage, showing guests what it means to host a truly accessible event.
Chief Executive Richard Franklin addressed the audience, emphasising the urgent need for financial support in the face of systemic underfunding. “Despite the chronic underfunding of social care, I truly believe we can deliver world-class services. Kisharon Langdon represents the very best of what our community values – compassion, generosity and excellence. But we need your help to sustain and grow this vital work,” he said. Franklin also drew attention to the rising costs and growing demand for services, highlighting the importance of fairer government support.
Special guest speaker Michelle Dyson C.B., parent and Director General for Adult Social Care, praised the charity’s transformative work, sharing her personal perspective:
“The Jewish community’s assets are being deployed to help people like my daughter, Rosi. But this doesn’t happen by itself; it needs Kisharon Langdon to galvanise, to co-ordinate and to support. In the end, people like Rosi want what we all want: a place to call home, with the people and things we love, in communities where we look out for each other, doing the things that matter to us. This is the power of Kisharon Langdon.”
Guests were reminded of the urgent £4.5 million funding shortfall Kisharon Langdon faces this year, due to rising service demands and government underfunding. Kisharon Langdon Co-Chairs Nick Doffman and Philip Goldberg shared:
“Kisharon Langdon now supports over 500 people and their families every day. With an annual turnover exceeding £24 million, we are now one of the largest charities in the Jewish community. Growth brings new challenges, and while we are incredibly proud of our achievements, we know that the work is far from over. To continue providing the level of care to people we support, we must raise £4.5 million this year alone. The generosity and belief in our mission makes all the difference. Whether through time, financial support or advocacy, our supporters are the heart of our success.”
The funds raised at the dinner will enable the charity to continue delivering essential programmes, including nurseries, schools, supported living flats, employment initiatives, and social enterprise schemes.
Richard Jones, a previous Britain’s Got Talent winner entertained guests. The evening also featured a powerful film illustrating the full cycle of support Kisharon Langdon provides, highlighting how they push boundaries, change perceptions and transform lives. The film highlighted people the charity support and parents sharing their reassurance that their children will be cared for and supported every step of the way into adulthood – each throughout their journey of a lifetime.
Creamy white fish in a crispy batter, served with crunchy melt-in the mouth chips, and a side order of mushy peas – welcome to Jana’s Chippy, a pop up restaurant in the Kisharon Noé School dining room.
School Headteacher Adina Collins turned a normal Friday lunchtime into an eatery inviting Trustees, directors, parents and head office staff after declaring Catering Manager Jana Gocova’s fish and chips the best in Hendon.
Jana and her team Judy Wise and Vani pulled out all the stops. Not only was there kohlrabi soup for starter but lunch was accompanied by tartare sauce, plenty of vinegar for the oven-baked chips, salad on the side and served in greaseproof paper ‘newspaper’.
Vani had the unenviable task of frying 100 pieces of haddock on the day in a batter that caused some anxiety.
Jana explained: “We couldn’t use beer batter and so tested an alternative recipe using flour, milk, water, baking powder and salt. It came out well.”
Planning her school lunch menus months ago, Jana steered clear of fish fingers, despite their popularity. “I wanted to offer the children a proper fish and chip experience and to enjoy fresh produce.
“At our first fish and chip lunch children came back for seconds and teachers who don’t normally come for lunch decided to that day.”
“The haddock we used wasn’t the cheapest fish but it has more flavour. It was sourced from a local fishmonger who portioned and filleted it. It’s good to support a local supplier.”
Last word comes from Trustee Yitzy Lerner who said: “It was a delicious lunch on Friday – glad I was able to pop in.”
Fish and chips is next on the school menu on January. Any invites? There’ll probably be as scarce as gold dust.
Kisharon Noé School’s Orchards classes mirror a traditional high school, with pupils following a formal timetable, having subject-specific teachers, and have encouragement to source their own equipment in a variety of lessons.
Lead Teacher for the Orchards classes, Deputy Headteacher Ian Funnell, said: “Our aim is to develop the independence of our pupils. In Orchards, they feel like their mainstream siblings who have their own school timetables and are taught by several teachers over the school day.”
Orchards’ pupils have the opportunity to leave school with the elements of a functional qualification which they can also work on further, if they wish to.
The pupils study for BTEC Entry-Level qualifications in English, Maths, Life Skills and Applied Science, and their school timetable allows them to see different teachers during the day, giving them a variety of people delivering different subjects and skills.
This is a new endeavour for the school and pupils will benefit from working on these qualifications at their own pace, depending on their needs and ability.
As we light the Chanukah candles, it’s time to reflect how this particular festival relates to Kisharon Langdon. Chanukah commemorates the miraculous defeat in the second century BCE of the powerful Syrian-Greek armies by a poorly-armed group led by Judah the Maccabee.
Historical comparisons aside, it’s perhaps best to focus on the word ‘Chanukah’ which has its roots in the Hebrew word Chinuch – education.
As the late Rabbi Sacks pithily puts it: “To defend a country you need an army, but to defend a civilisation you need education.”
Education, learning and development is the bedrock of what we do at Kisharon Langdon, and it underpins every support service we offer.
I was delighted that the recent Ofsted monitoring visit to Kisharon Langdon College recognises: “In a short space of time, new trustees, leaders and managers have made notable improvements. They benefit from the wider expertise of the charity, such as in social care. Staff and learners identify the positive and open culture.”These observations encapsulate what we are about.
In supported living from Bury to Edgware, local authority inspections have commended our services and at an All-Party Parliamentary Group Chanukah commemoration earlier this month in the historic Westminster Hall (built in 1097 and the oldest building on the Westminster estate), another communal leader came up to me to commend our social work and safeguarding expertise.
While external validation is nice to hear, the voices I listen to most keenly are those expressed in the recent family and employee engagement surveys.
While I am pleased by the exceptional levels of positivity recorded, the true strength of these surveys is in recognising that these views are not universal, and we learn, from the large body of feedback we also receive, what we can do better from people motivated to improve what we offer members and people we support.
In Jewish law we read ‘education brings peace to your children [banayich] – but read not ‘children’ but bonayich ‘your builders’ (Berachot 62a). May we educate ourselves and all our children this Chanukah to build peace and goodwill for all.
Over this holiday period, however you celebrate, may everyone involved in Kisharon Langdon continue to go from strength to strength, building on our achievements to date and with the knowledge that the work we do is rewarded by positivity and appreciation from those we support, their families and the wider community.
Kisharon Langdon’s 6th annual charity Monopoly event brought together property professionals for an evening of spirited competition and community connection.
Guests engaged in intense rounds of Speed Monopoly, where strategy and determination filled the room as teams vied for victory. The winning team, led by Ingram Winter Green, included Michael Compton, Destiny Dixon, Adam Pearlman and Daniel Shein.
This dynamic event not only fostered connections among professionals but also supported Kisharon Langdon’s mission, bringing the community together in a shared purpose.
The event’s success was made possible by the dedication of committee members including: Nigel Henry, Nick Doffman, Sam Castle, Ben Henry, James Doffman, Benji Fruhman, Paul Joseph and Josh Tobin, all of whom helped create an engaging experience for attendees.
Reflecting on the event, Nick Doffman, Kisharon Langdon’s Joint Chair of Trustees, remarked, “It’s inspiring to see property professionals unite around this unique fundraiser. The event demonstrates the strength of our network and the difference we can make together.”
Kisharon Langdon extends its gratitude to sponsors OakNorth, Fusion Group, Tuatara and Mishcon De Reya.
The funds raised will be directed towards supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people, underscoring the event’s impact beyond the evening’s games and networking.
“We are about so much more than books,” says Sarah Sharlott, Head of Social Enterprise and Community Opportunities, following the grant award which will allow the library to take on a second paid member of staff.
With the £155,550 grant, paid over four years, the library can open an extra morning a week and extend existing community activities like the toddler group, Lego club and gardening.
The library’s work placements allow adults with learning disabilities to improve their job skills and give them the experience they need to find further work placements.
Sarah added: “It’s about bringing people together and creating a space where people can go and give something back to the community. It’s a place for everybody, and everybody has a place in our library.
“Having people with additional needs working in this very public space raises awareness of the challenges they face and the valuable contribution they can make. They’re just seen as a regular part of the team.”
Funders, the City Bridge Foundation, which is responsible for the five Thames crossings, were impressed with the library. It was threatened with closure in a review of Barnet’s library service in 2017, when the contract to run it was awarded to Kisharon Langdon.
Giles Shilson, City Bridge Foundation Chairman, said: “Kisharon Langdon has done an amazing job of reinventing the concept of the library and creating a thriving community hub.”
Previously, the library was run entirely by volunteers who were overseen by Library Manager Neha Dhakar, the only paid member of staff.
