Our Vision Statement:

Together we are Curious, Courageous and Compassionate

Inspired by the parable of the mustard seed, we believe every child can grow from small beginnings and flourish. Rooted in our village, our school, church and community work together so that everyone belongs. We nurture wonder about the world and help each child discover their place in it. Our values guide us to be curious, act with courage and show compassion, making a positive difference in our community and beyond.

“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed … Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree.”

Matthew 13:31–32 (extract)

Our Christian Vision

The Parable of the Mustard Seed is at the heart of our school vision. It reminds us that something extraordinary can grow from the smallest beginnings.

At Clifton Hampden, we believe every child is unique, valued and capable of flourishing. We are proud of our close-knit village school, where children are known as individuals, relationships matter and everyone has a part to play.

Our Christian vision shapes how we learn, how we treat one another and the opportunities we create for our children. It inspires us to look beyond what children can achieve today and consider all that they might become.

Our Three School Values

Our values are more than words. They guide our choices, our relationships and the way we approach learning every day.

Curious — Wonder, Question, Discover

We encourage children to be inquisitive, ask thoughtful questions and develop a genuine love of learning.

Being curious means exploring new ideas, listening to different perspectives and having the confidence to ask why, how and what if?

We want our children to retain their sense of wonder about the world and recognise that learning does not stop at the classroom door.

Courageous — Believe, Challenge, Grow

We encourage children to be brave in their learning, to try new things and to persevere when something feels difficult.

Being courageous is not about never feeling afraid. It is about finding the confidence to have a go, learning from mistakes, speaking up and standing up for what is right.

We want our children to believe in themselves, embrace opportunities and recognise that growth often begins when we step outside our comfort zone.

Compassionate — Care, Include, Make a Difference

We encourage children to show kindness, empathy and respect in the way they treat others.

Being compassionate means noticing when someone needs help, understanding that people may think or feel differently, and choosing to act with care.

We want our children to understand that even the smallest act of kindness can make a difference, both within our school and in the wider world.

Living Our Vision Through Our Tree of Learning

Our Tree of Learning Curriculum reflects our belief that strong roots allow children to grow and flourish.

We provide firm foundations in reading, writing and mathematics, alongside a rich and ambitious wider curriculum that encourages children to explore their interests, develop independence and make connections in their learning.

Through outdoor learning, Forest School and Earth Explorers, our Canopy Programme for older pupils, and opportunities within our village and beyond, we encourage children to discover new possibilities and develop confidence in who they are and what they can achieve.

Just like the mustard seed, we believe that with the right foundations, encouragement and opportunities, every child can grow.

Our Value This Term: Courage

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

This term, we are exploring what it really means to be courageous.

We are thinking about the courage to try something new, to keep going when things become difficult, to admit when we have made a mistake and to stand up for others.

Through Bible stories, collective worship, discussion and everyday school experiences, children are encouraged to recognise that courage comes in many forms. Sometimes it is a big decision; sometimes it is a small, quiet act of bravery.

Our challenge this term: How can we show courage in our learning, our friendships and the choices we make?

Our Curious Question of the Week

Each week in Collective Worship, we introduce a Curious Question to challenge our thinking.

These questions encourage children to wonder, reflect, share different viewpoints and consider how our Christian values can guide our actions.

There is not always one right answer. We want children to think deeply, listen respectfully and feel confident to explore big ideas.

Questions might include:

• Can you be brave and still feel afraid?

• Is doing the right thing always easy?

• Can one small action make a big difference?

• What does it really mean to belong?

Our Curious Questions help us carry our learning and reflection beyond Collective Worship and into our classrooms, playground, homes and community.

Growing Together, Flourishing Together

As a Church of England school, our Christian foundation is central to our identity. We welcome and value children and families of all faiths and none, recognising the importance of belonging, understanding and respect.

Working together with our families, church and village community, we want every child to leave Clifton Hampden with strong foundations, a love of learning, the courage to embrace new opportunities and the compassion to make a positive difference.

Together we are Curious, Courageous and Compassionate.