Introduction

Aerial Photo
Aerial photograph of Clifton Hampden school

Clifton Hampden is an idyllic Thames-side village, approximately ten miles from Oxford and four miles from Abingdon. The school catchment area includes the hamlet of Burcot, and attracts children from nearby villages and Didcot.

The school has 59 children on roll, aged 4½ to 11 years, who are organised into two classes, with the Key Stage 2 (KS2) class being split into two for numeracy and literacy.

Clifton Hampden School was founded in 1847, and was substantially extended in the 1960's. The school is an attractive listed building with a high ceiling and large windows which contributes to the happy atmosphere in which the children respect their surroundings

The school provides a focal point in the centre of the village, set in attractive grounds providing a variety of areas including a pond/wildlife area and modern play equipment.

The school has 2.6 full time teachers (including the Headteacher) and draws on the experience of a number of part time specialist teachers to support the teaching of ICT, music and French. The school has the advantage that the learning support assistant has a teaching qualification, which enables her to cover for study and sick leave when necessary. There is also strong support from the Governors, the parents and an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA).

The school is part of the Abingdon partnership and enjoys a particularly strong relationship with Culham school, with whom it has enjoyed many joint activities and trips. It also maintains strong links with the church and local community.

William Gibbs - a local benefactor and tradesman - founded Clifton Hampden School in 1847. His generosity provided a school for 100 boys and girls.

Built in the Gothic Revival Style, the school is an attractive and historic building in a beautiful location.

Clifton Hampden School has close links with the local community, with children taking part in fundraising activities and services at the parish church. The harvest lunch is an important date in the village diary.

The school has a firm commitment to innovative and progressive teaching, The addition of the interactive white-board has enhanced the learning of the children. A range of workshops in subjects such as art, technology and music complement the dedicated work of the permanent staff.