Sandon JMI School, a cherished rural primary school founded in 1835 in the heart of Sandon, has won the fight to stop Hertfordshire County Council proceeding to closure consultation, much to the relief of the whole community.
Following a few weeks of uncertainty and a passionate campaign from governors, parents and residents, Hertfordshire County Council has confirmed that Sandon School will be open for the academic year 2026-27, giving valuable time to secure the school’s long-term future.
Over 300 parents, staff and villagers signed a petition and wrote letters to the Council calling for the school to remain open and highlighting the long-term consequences of losing such an important rural institution. They also submitted a comprehensive recovery plan, demonstrating that the school was already on the road to recovery.
Local MP Chris Hinchliff also backed the campaign, visiting the school and writing an open letter to the Council himself stating that “Village schools are more than places of learning. They are community hubs, deeply woven into the social and cultural fabric of their villages. Their closure would not only remove local education provision but also risk long-term damage to the cohesion and sustainability of rural life in these areas. Once village schools are closed, they rarely return.”
A delegation from Sandon presented the petition to the County Council at their offices at Robertson House, Stevenage on 6th November and requested that the new Head be given more time to implement the robust recovery plan. After listening to the reasoning, councillors voted 8 to 3 in agreement to stop the closure consultation and give the school time to secure its future for the next generation.
“This is a real victory for Sandon and the future of our village schools,” said Mr Hinchliff. “Sandon JMI is more than a place of education—it’s a vital part of the community. I’m proud to have stood with parents, staff, and governors in making the case for its future.”
Under Sandon JMI’s new Headteacher, Ricky Boxall, the school is already seeing a rise in pupil numbers with growing demand from families particularly from surrounding towns seeking a choice from the larger mainstream offering.
“We are hearted by the immediate and passionate response and it’s clear how much this school means to everyone. Our school offers a truly special environment. We’re proud to offer fully accredited Forest School lessons in a unique rural setting and with our small class sizes and dedicated inspiring staff, every child is celebrated and thrives.” said headteacher, Ricky Boxall. “We firmly believe small schools have unique strengths and we will continue to advocate for rural education.”
Despite the pressures facing rural schools across the country Sandon JMI is committed to delivering the highest standard of education for its pupils. Part of the recovery plan includes re-opening Cygnets preschool and welcoming new children from April 2026.
To book a tour and see what makes Sandon JMI so special call 01763 287 238
www.sandon.herts.sch.uk
Rushden Rd, Sandon, Buntingford SG9 0QS
