- “Think for yourself; act for others,” this academy tells pupils in Headington, Oxford. Rob Pavey, the head teacher, says: “Cheney is a genuinely comprehensive school, in the best sense of the term, with a fully inclusive intake which represents not just our catchment area but also modern Britain. The ideals of the comprehensive movement have been met in Cheney in a way that is very rare.”
- The school’s Classics Centre runs termly projects to introduce pupils to ancient history, such as Return of the Romans re-enactments and Roman cookery and mosaics. Pupils also take regular trips to the wealth of museums in Oxford, London and Bath.
- More than 80 languages are spoken by pupils, celebrated during the school’s first Languages Week in 2025.
- In the sixth form, students choose from 26 A-level courses and six BTecs. Many also take on the Extended Project Qualification and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
- The stimulating extracurricular programme ranges from baking to Korean lessons, as well as a full array of sports, creative arts, creative writing and film. New clubs are often set up in response to interest from students and staff.
- Brookes University is nearby, and students gain an insight into higher education via the Brookes Engage programme featuring lectures and tuition. Year 13 pupils can use the university’s study facilities, coffee bars and chill-out areas.
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