CHIPPING WARDEN SCHOOL in Oxfordshire, Banbury

Education Centre Information: Chipping Warden School:

Establishment Type:Academy Converter
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Northamptonshire
Reason Establishment Opened: Academy Converter
Establishment Open Date: 01/09/2013
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Village - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Does not apply
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 59
Number of boys: 35
Number of girls: 24
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Originally established in 1870 near the centre of a small village seven miles north of Banbury, the school moved after a population boom during the Second World War prompted education authorities to buy and adapt a former RAF Hospital in 1952. A loss of local housing saw the roll drop to 21 children in 1991 but hard work by staff, parents governors to improve the dilapidated premises has seen that number rise. A kindergarten was added in 1993 to prepare youngsters for a smooth entrance to the school. A 'massive' refurbishment using #210,000 of New Deal for Schools funding began in October 2000. Greatly-supported by the community, it aims to be a traditional village school with Maypole dancing, Christmas and summer fairs, harvest festival and carol services. There is a strong emphasis on reading and most children achieve Key Stage 5 in all three subjects, with one 11-year-old recently winning a scholarship. Other activities include brass/violin lessons; professional football coaching for juniors; an annual production; swimming lessons and a commercially-sponsored science project. 'We aim to make school fun and we reckon we have succeeded as our numbers have more than doubled, our staff aren't stressed and like the children, enjoy coming to school each day'.