Alpine Adventure
Year 6 enjoyed an unforgettable adventure in Italy, packed with excitement, challenge and breathtaking alpine scenery.
From mountain treks and high ropes to the rush of white water rafting on the Noce River, every day brought something new. Filled with adventure, friendship and lasting memories, it was the perfect way to bring their Hampton Prep days to a close.
The Headmaster
There is always something wonderful about seeing an edition of ROAR come together.
The unmistakable energy of Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep School is clear to see throughout these pages, capturing a term lived at full pace, full volume and with full hearts.
Writing this particular introduction comes with a lump in my throat. This is my final piece for ROAR as Headmaster, and it is a bittersweet task at the end of such a vibrant and memorable term.
Our lion cub has always struck me as exactly the right emblem for our School. There is bounce. There is verve. There is pace. And, there is a huge amount of rollicking good fun. That blend of joy and substance, of spirit and character, is what I will miss most.
As you turn these pages, I hope you will see what I have seen for eleven years: children who run rather than walk, who ask the question nobody else thought to ask, and who carry that lion cub spirit with them long after they have left our gates. To everyone who has roared alongside me, thank you, and have a lovely summer.
Tim Smith Headmaster
ISI REPORT
Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep was delighted to receive a glowing report following their recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection.
Meeting every requirement, inspectors praised the School’s positive and purposeful learning environment, high-quality teaching and strong focus on pupil wellbeing.
Read the report here:
The Head of Pre-Prep
What magical moments we have shared this term in Pre-Prep.
From Kindergarten to Year 2, pupils have enjoyed an action-packed programme of learning and discovery, with exciting trips, Humanities Day, Sports Day and much more.
It is always wonderful to receive positive feedback about the children’s behaviour when they are out and about. Equally special are the moments of awe and wonder as they experience new adventures, whether at Winchester Science Centre, The Living Rainforest, Bocketts Farm, or a boat trip along the Thames.
I would like to wish our Year 2 boys and girls every success and happiness as they move on to their next school. We know they are ready for this exciting next chapter, but we will miss them greatly and have loved having them as part of our Pre-Prep family.
Imogen Murphy Head of Pre-Prep
Kindergarten Superhero Day
Kindergarten transformed into their favourite heroes for a day.
Spider-Man proved especially popular, with web-slingers aplenty spotted around School alongside Elsa, Iron Man and Batman.
Pupils explored what it truly means to be a superhero, deciding that kindness and helping others are the greatest powers of all.
Humanities Day
A step back in time brought Humanities Day to life, as pupils across the School explored Ancient Rome.
Prep dressed as emperors, gladiators and centurions before battling it out in exciting challenges including chariot relays, balance duels and tests of strength. Meanwhile, Pre-Prep pupils enjoyed immersive roleplay adventures, exploring bustling Roman markets, mysterious tombs and roaring arenas.
Reception to Bocketts Farm
Reception enjoyed a busy day at Bocketts Farm, filled with hands‑on animal encounters and plenty of countryside fun.
They stroked rabbits and guinea pigs, bounced along on a tractor ride, and cheered enthusiastically during the ever-popular pig race.
Pupils explored the farmer’s garden and learned more about where food comes from, before ending the day by feeding the hungry sheep and goats — a perfect finish to their farm adventure.
Year 4 Residential
Challenges, teamwork and plenty of action set the tone for the Year 4 adventure to Grittleton House.
Pupils pushed themselves to conquer Jacob’s Ladder, encouraging each other and celebrating every success. Energy continued during the ultimate water fight, with sponges flying, water blasters spraying and even teachers caught up in the fun!
Year 3 Residential
Year 3 spent a memorable few days at Sayers Croft Activity Centre.
Showing excellent teamwork, pupils worked together to build woodland shelters before putting them to the test in the rain.
High above the forest floor, pupils tackled the high ropes, climbing wall and zip line. Competition was fierce during ballista, as the boys designed and built their own catapults before testing their aim head-to-head.
Year 2 Transition Day
Year 2 pupils took their first steps towards Prep School life during a busy Transition Day.
Guided by Year 6 pupils, they explored their new school building, took part in a lively Q&A session and tested their knowledge of Prep life in a quiz. The day concluded with a scooter skills workshop, where pupils navigated the course with confidence.
Maths Wizard
Four Year 5 pupils took part in the Maths Wizard Challenge at Hampton School, tackling codes, puzzles and team challenges against local prep schools.
With strong problem-solving skills and teamwork, the budding mathematicians secured an impressive second place.
Beekeeper Visit
Kindergarten was buzzing with curiosity when Mrs G the beekeeper arrived in her bright green bee suit.
The children learned about life inside a hive and saw close-up photographs of a queen bee. They were fascinated to learn that bees can travel up to three miles to find flowers in order to make honey, sparking plenty of questions.
Year 1 Trip to Winchester Science centre
Year 1 pupils visited Winchester Science Centre, taking part in a range of hands-on activities.
They explored the solar system in the planetarium and climbed aboard a replica spaceship to learn more about astronauts and the vast scale of the universe. Pupils designed, built and launched their own rockets, cheering each other on as they raced through the air.
Kindergarten Journeys Trip
Kindergarten enjoyed an exciting transport-themed adventure, travelling by train to Kingston, taking a boat along the Thames to Hampton Court, and completing their journey by bus.
They waved to people along the riverbank and enjoyed a picnic and playtime in Bushy Park. Our young travellers made the most of each stage of the journey, arriving back at School with plenty to talk about.
Year 5 Residential
The Year 5 trip to the Isle of Wight was an adventure from start to finish.
From racing across the aqua park and digging giant holes on the beach to catching waves in wetsuits, the boys embraced every opportunity for fun. Between friendly battles on the pickleball court and pirate-themed crazy golf, they threw themselves into every challenge, creating memories that will last long after the ferry ride home.
Pre-Prep Sports Day
Energy, teamwork and determination were on display as pupils raced, balanced, and jumped their way through a variety of exciting events, including sprints, sack races and a challenging skills course.
With plenty of cheering from the sidelines, pupils showcased the agility, coordination and confidence they have developed throughout the year.
Year 1 Summer Sports Gala
Year 1 were delighted to welcome children from ten local prep schools for a fun filled afternoon of sport.
Pupils enjoyed a wide range of activities including mini golf, sack races and testing their balance in an egg and spoon race. A highlight was a life-sized game of Hungry Hippos, which proved a huge hit with the children. Everyone received a medal and rounded off the day with a well-earned ice lolly.
Guernsey Cricket Tour
The U11A cricket team travelled to Guernsey for their annual tour against Elizabeth College.
The tour got off to a strong start, with the boys securing victory in their U11 fixture thanks to an impressive all-round team performance.
A highlight of the tour was staying with pupils from Elizabeth College and their families, giving the boys the chance to build friendships, experience island life and enjoy cricket beyond the boundary.
Swimming Gala
Ready, set, splash!
The annual Swimming Gala saw Years 3 to 6 dive into Hampton Open Air Pool, competing across a range of events, including freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke, alongside the ever-popular three-man raft race.
Congratulations to York House for claiming victory and a big well done to all our swimmers.
Dracula Rocks
Year 5 and Year 6 shone in their lively production of Dracula Rocks, a comedy full of zombies, detectives and toe-tapping tunes.
Inspector Shirley Holmes led the action as she investigated strange goings-on involving Dracula and a host of colourful characters.
With impressive acting, singing and dance routines, pupils delivered a fantastic show, finishing with a rousing performance of Everybody’s Gotta Rock.
Prep Proms
The Hammond Theatre was filled with colour and music as pupils took to the stage for the tenth annual Prep Proms Concert.
Celebrating the wonders of the world around us, pupils delighted the audience with a varied programme of music, showcasing their talent, enthusiasm and hard work throughout the year. The evening concluded with a joyful whole-School finale, as colourful ribbons filled the stage in a fitting celebration of another successful year of music at the School.
Farewell Mr Smith
As the academic year draws to a close, Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep bid farewell to our Headmaster, Mr Smith, who has led the School with dedication and distinction since 2015.
Over the past decade, Mr Smith has overseen many significant moments, including the opening of the Prep building and the School's centenary celebrations, as well as accompanying pupils on unforgettable trips far and wide.
Mr Smith's leadership, commitment and sense of humour have left a lasting impression on pupils past and present and we wish him every success in his next adventure.
Thank you for being the greatest headmaster ever! In Year 3 you welcomed me into this lovely school. In Year 4 you made everyone laugh. Throughout Year 5 and 6 you have done everything to make us happy and now sadly it is the end of our Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep Journey.
Goodbye Mr Smith.
Akhil
Your dedication and kindness have helped us all grow and learn. Good luck in your future school, I hope the pupils know how lucky they are to have you.
Ediz
Thank you for teaching me for these past four years - you’ve helped me become the human who I am today. I hope you enjoy the rest of your teaching career, and I wish you all the best for your next school.
Arjun
Meet the teacher
We threw some quick fire questions at Year 3 teacher Mr Graham Johnston:
What inspired you to go into teaching? And what made you choose Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep?
Before teaching I worked as a Chartered Surveyor, and while I enjoyed my career, I wanted to do something more rewarding, which led me to make the move into teaching.
When an opportunity arose at Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep, it seemed like a wonderful chance to teach high-achieving pupils while also being involved in sport, which is something I am passionate about.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The interaction with pupils, both in the classroom and out on the sports field, is what I enjoy most. I also value the many opportunities that come with working in an independent school setting. The smaller class sizes mean I can really get to know each boy as an individual and support them throughout their learning.
When you’re not busy as a teacher, what are your favourite pastimes?
I really enjoy cycling to and from work. It's a lovely way to commute - apart from when it's hailing! I also play golf whenever I can and enjoy the challenge of trying to improve my game. I've been trying to persuade some other members of staff to join me for a round, watch this space! Most importantly, I love spending time with my young family.
What words of wisdom would you pass on to your younger self?
Take every opportunity that comes your way. Even if something doesn't go exactly as planned, a seemingly wrong path can often lead to a great outcome.
Who in the public eye inspires you?
When I was younger, I was inspired by golfer Seve Ballesteros, whose creativity and fearless approach turned difficult challenges into legendary triumphs. His celebration after winning The Open remains one of golf’s most memorable moments. I was equally inspired by his humble beginnings, learning the game with a walking stick because his family could not afford golf clubs.
Is there an inspiring quote that you live by?
‘Be curious, not judgemental.’ I like to get to the bottom of things rather than jump to conclusions. Staying curious helps us understand people and situations more fully.
Year 2 Living Rainforest
Year 2 immersed themselves in tropical plants, exotic wildlife and rainforest wonders at The Living Rainforest.
They explored the layers of the rainforest, met colourful poison dart frogs, spotted baby monkeys and watched birds roaming freely. On the Edible Forest tour, pupils learned how rainforests supply many everyday foods and used their senses to investigate unusual fruits and plants.
Awesome Art
Zaki r
Ed r
Wilf r
Harry r
Zayn r Nivaan r
Akshay r
Bodie r
Azaan r
Finn r
Anton r Hari r
Vrushank r
Oscar r
Neeth r
Year 6 Cookery Workshop
"Yes, Chef!” echoed around the hall as Year 6 took part in a Mexican-inspired cookery workshop led by Hampton School’s catering team.
The boys made their own tortilla chip nachos, seasoning them with paprika and salt, before preparing fresh salsa with tomatoes, onions and peppers. After a final sprinkle of cheese and a trip to the oven, the delicious results were ready to enjoy.
cycling Proficiency
Year 6 pupils successfully completed their cycling proficiency course.
Pupils practised riding safely on local roads while developing important cycling skills for everyday journeys.
They learned to use clear hand signals, master safe U turns and navigate junctions confidently.
Year 6 Twickenham Stadium Visit
Stepping beyond the stands, Year 6 discovered what goes on behind the scenes at one of the world’s most famous rugby venues.
The boys explored the stadium's rich history while learning about legendary rugby players and the significance of the Remembrance Gates. Interactive activities included testing reaction speeds, measuring vertical jumps and trying out the scrum machine used by professional players.
Year
6 to thorpe lAkes
Year 6 Science Museum
Year 6 visited the Science Museum, exploring the history of flight, engineering and space.
In the Wonder Show, pupils watched the famous ‘elephant’s toothpaste’ experiment before heading to Wonderlab, where they tested friction, experimented with a water cannon and used a thermal camera to explore heat.
Year 6 headed to Thorpe Lakes, putting their determination to the test on the giant floating aqua park.
From climbing, sliding and bouncing on trampolines to navigating rope swings and obstacle challenges, there was no shortage of thrills.
Pupils also took part in knee boarding and tackled The Ring, where they were pulled across the water and challenged to hold on for as long as possible.
