Hampden Gurney CofE Primary School

I think Hampden Gurney School is an astonishing place. Anyone who visits immediately sees that our building is an architectural marvel. It is a breath-taking multi-storey hub of learning and discovery. However, not so many people realise that the building rises up from the altar in our basement chapel. And its design is no accident.

The building captures the way in which the life of our school rests upon its Christian foundation. We are committed to prayer and worship, and I believe this provides our children with the best environment in which to flourish. Hampden Gurney is of course open to children from every part of our local community.

Our religious foundation determines our radically inclusive values, in which we seek to serve children whatever their belief or ability. We're a very diverse community, much like a village school in size, but with the whole world attending.

And diversity brings such riches to our community life, ensuring that the cultural capital of our lively neighbourhood finds expression in the day-to-day life of our school. It's one of the reasons, I love spending time in school each week. I never fail to feel inspired by both the unity and diversity.