Can you check your bags at LHR if flying EX-EU?

Planning to fly hand-baggage only to AMS and back again and then to collect our luggage and check-in for our flight from London later in the afternoon.
Can that be done or will our baggage have to be checked in at AMS and checked right through to our final destination?
Thanks.
Can that be done or will our baggage have to be checked in at AMS and checked right through to our final destination?
Thanks.