Our School
Welcome to Checkendon Church of England (A) Primary School
As Headteacher, I am delighted and honoured to welcome you to our wonderful school. Checkendon is a warm, inclusive, and family-oriented community where every child is valued, encouraged, and supported to flourish.
Our vision – “unlocking the unique voice within each child” – is at the heart of everything we do. We want our pupils to live, love, and learn to the fullest, growing in confidence, curiosity, and resilience. Our Christian ethos sets high expectations for both learning and personal growth, encouraging children to embrace challenge, celebrate effort, and discover their unique talents.
The May 2024 SIAMS inspection praised our inspiring vision, rich curriculum, strong relationships, and inclusive, invitational worship.
“The Christian vision is inspiring and lived out by the Checkendon school community… Pupils and adults value one another as they seek to enable everyone to flourish.”
Pupils thrive academically, creatively, physically, and spiritually – excelling in music, sport, drama, art, and more. We are proud of our Platinum Sports Mark award, consistently strong academic results, and our vibrant programme of enrichment activities, including Forest School, visits and visitors.
Our NASEN review (July 2025) commended our expert SEND leadership, robust assessment systems, and personalised teaching that enables every learner – including those with complex needs – to thrive. It highlighted our strong parent partnerships, inclusive ethos, and the way every child is known, valued, and supported.
Our small school community means every child is known, valued, and supported as an individual. Strong relationships between pupils and staff create a warm, family atmosphere where children feel safe, confident, and ready to take on new challenges. Older pupils naturally mentor younger ones, friendships span year groups, and staff work closely with families to ensure every child can flourish. We actively promote equality, diversity, and a strong sense of belonging.
Set in beautiful rural surroundings, we make the most of our outdoor environment, from building dens to listening to birdsong in Forest School sessions. We enjoy a close partnership with St Peter and St Paul Church, where we gather weekly for collective worship, often planned and led by pupils themselves..
Our social media pages give a wonderful window into daily life at Checkendon – come and see the learning, creativity, and joy that fill our days:
Instagram: Checkendon Primary School
Facebook: Checkendon CE Primary School
If you have any questions or wish to arrange a visit, please email me at head.3801@checkendon.oxon.sch.uk. I’m usually at the school gate in the morning – please come and say hello!
We look forward to welcoming you to experience our caring ethos and vibrant learning community for yourself.
Warm regards,
Sarah Hillier
Headteacher