Joel went to Melbourne Hebrew School, behind the Bourke Street synagogue. He was Dux of school 1875 and passed matriculation and public service exams 1876. He became a pupil teacher, teacher (1878) then headmaster (1883 - 1886).

In 1888 he was appointed teacher and choirmaster of St Kilda Hebrew School, second reader and secretary of the St Kilda congregation. He taught Hebrew, Jewish culture and singing. He later became headmaster of the school. Member of United Jewish Education Board by 1897. In 1929, aged 69, he asked to be relieved of his duties as headmaster but continued as secretary and choirmaster. He resigned in November 1939 and was granted leave of absence on full salary until 30 Oct 1940.