John Palmer was headmaster of Millisle Primary School and oversaw the education of many young Jewish Refugees. They had escaped occupied Europe in the kindertransport scheme.
The Belfast Jewish Community had established a kibbutz of sorts at Ballyrolly House, Millisle, Co. Down.
It was from here the children came to learn from John Palmer at Millisle Primary School, Millisle, Co. Down. He would sit them next to local children allowing them to learn the local language.