Meet our Head Teacher

Helen Graff

Helen Graff is an exceptionally effective teacher and school leader of 30 years’ experience with a distinctive and positive leadership style.

She joined Eden as Deputy Headteacher in February 2016 and worked alongside our founding Headteacher for seven years, to develop the school from its early days into the flourishing primary school it is today.

Helen has extensive teaching experience across the complete primary age range and has held leading roles in all aspects of teaching, learning, assessment and staff development. Helen previously worked at primary schools in Redbridge, Waltham Forest and Camden and was a Deputy Headteacher from 1998 – 2023.

She holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and a degree in English Literature from York University.

Helen’s vision for the next phase of Eden’s development is in line with that of our founding Headteacher and she is firmly committed to the Vision and inclusive Jewish ethos of Eden Primary.

Founding Head Teacher: Jo Sassienie

Jo Sassienie joined Eden Primary in January 2011, to work on setting up the school alongside the founding directors. Her incredible vision and her dedication to child centred learning is evident all around the school and the whole community is incredibly grateful for the start she gave our school.

Jo worked with passion and dedication. Under her leadership the school was rated consistently Good by Ofsted and Outstanding by Pikuach.

Our beautiful building, our commitment to inclusive and cross curricular Jewish Education and the inspiration of the schools of Reggio Emilia are all due to Jo. Jo retired from teaching in July 2023 and she and her family continue to support the work of the school.