Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep ROAR Summer 2025 by HamptonSchool

Adventure in the Alps!

Year 6 had an unforgettable time on their Alpine adventure to Italy, packed with action, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime.

From climbing and mountain biking to high ropes in a beautiful forest park, every day brought a new challenge. Pupils explored a fascinating museum, trekked through the stunning Messi Valley, and topped it all off with a lively pizza party and disco.

The highlight of the trip was white water rafting on the Noce River in the breathtaking Val di Sole - a thrilling ride through rushing rapids. Each evening, over dinner, pupils celebrated their friends with Il Mito del Giorno “Legend of the Day” recognising acts of kindness, courage, humour, and all-round brilliance.

The Headmaster

As ever at Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep, the final weeks of term have been bursting with adventure, curiosity, and celebration.

While there is much to be proud of in the classroom, there are many other activities we do alongside our lessons that give School life its colour and joy.

Pupils have enjoyed a range of wonderful residential trips this term. From Year 3 to Year 6, our children have embraced new challenges, deepened friendships, and grown in confidence through time spent away together - the kind of learning that only happens beyond the school gates.

Alongside these adventures, the School has been alive with music, sport, languages, drama, and so much more. Highlights have included the Year 5 and 6 comedy caper Looking Good, Robin Hood; the Year 4 petit déjeuner; cricketing triumphs in the Verney Cup; a joyful teddy bears picnic, and the musical magic of the Prep Proms and, of course, summer festivities of every kind at the HPPPA Summer Fair.

Our pupils have thrown themselves into everything with characteristic enthusiasm - and it’s been truly infectious. Wishing all our families a joyful and restful summer break!

Wear it Wild Day

Our School Council, along with Miss Thompson, organised a fantastic ‘Wear It Wild Day’ to raise awareness and funds for endangered animals.

Pupils and staff embraced the wild theme, dressing up as animals from roaring lions to fluffy pandas, creating an animal-filled atmosphere around School. The day raised an amazing £164 for the World Wide Fund for Nature, which was kindly doubled by the HPPPA.

In Memory of Mrs Diane Gellner-Ward

As the academic year draws to a close, we reflect on someone very special to our School community: Mrs Diane Gellner-Ward, who we sadly lost last summer.

Over the past months, we have sought, both individually and as a School, to honour the care, guidance and wisdom she shared so generously. Mrs Gellner-Ward had a remarkable ability to support others with compassion - leaving a lasting impression on both colleagues and, most importantly, pupils at Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep.

It is with pride and affection that the Prep Library now bears her name, a fitting tribute to someone who championed the joy of learning and the well-being of every pupil. The recent dedication event was a moving occasion, bringing together former and current colleagues, parents, friends, and members of her family.

Kindergarten was transformed into superhero headquarters as pupils donned their imaginary capes and explored what it means to be a hero.

Everyone decided that whilst strength and speed are useful, kindness and compassion are true superhero qualities. Pupils recognised real-life heroes in our community, including police officers, doctors, and firefighters, who show these superhero qualities every day.

Superhero Day

Tim Smith Headmaster

Teddy Bears Picnic

Year 1 had a delightful time at their Teddy Bears Picnicand just like the song says, their teddies really did have a lovely time today!

Everyone enjoyed sharing tasty picnic treats and listening to special stories with their favourite cuddly companions. Pupils also thought about the difference between fact and fiction, in preparation for writing their own bear-themed information texts.

Petit

Déjeuner

Year 4 welcomed their parents to School for a tasty French breakfast.

Pupils confidently introduced key vocabulary, impressing everyone with their pronunciation.

Families joined in a series of lively language games, with plenty of laughter and learning along the way. The morning ended on a high note as everyone tucked into croissants and pain au chocolat - all ordered en français, of course. Miam miam!

Bocketts Farm

Reception pupils had an unforgettable day at Bocketts Farm, where animal adventures awaited around every corner.

From feeding friendly goats and llamas to cheering on their favourites in the thrilling pig race, the day was full of excitement. A bumpy tractor ride around the farm brought squeals of delight, but the most magical moment of all was witnessing the birth of two baby goats.

Residential Year 3

The Year 3 trip to High Ashurst was a brilliant blend of fun and adventure, with pupils embracing every new challenge.

Pupils tackled the climbing wall, abseiled with confidence, tested their aim in archery, and collaborated brilliantly in teambuilding challenges.

Evenings were spent singing songs around the campfire. The boys loved spending time with their friends in their huts, sharing stories and giggles late into the night.

Year 1 Winchester Science Centre

Year 1 had an out of this world adventure on their trip to the Winchester Science Centre.

The day was packed with hands-on activities, inspiring exhibits, and interactive workshops that brought science to life.

From marvelling at the wonders of space to uncovering the secrets behind everyday inventions, pupils were encouraged to think creatively, ask questions, and let their curiosity soar.

Year 4

Year 4 pupils embarked on an action-packed, fun-filled adventure at Grittleton House.

From archery and den building to the thrilling crate challenge, and navigating the crystal maze, there was no shortage of excitement. Water wars proved to be a splash-tastic favourite, and the campfire evening brought everyone together with songs, stories, and steaming mugs of hot chocolate.

Kindergarten Healthy BaKing

Kindergarten pupils enjoyed a hands-on cooking activity, preparing their own healthy snack of rainbow vegetable savoury muffins.

With great enthusiasm, they chopped vegetables, grated cheese, measured flour and milk, and carefully cracked eggs before mixing everything together. Everyone enjoyed learning about healthy diets, but eating their hard work was even better.

Pre-Prep Author Visit

Pre-Prep was buzzing with excitement as they welcomed two fantastic authors to School.

Anya Tuckwell-Jassar introduced pupils to the colourful world of Flingo, sharing fascinating flamingo facts and taking pupils on a joyful journey through her brilliant book.

Nick Stebbings, Head of Maths at Hampton School, introduced Doctor Ray and Her Magical Patientsa tale full of magical characters seeking calm in a busy world.

With the sun shining and spirits high, Pre-Prep Sports Day was a vibrant celebration of determination, teamwork, and plenty of House pride.

From the very first race to the final cheer, pupils gave their all - sprinting, hopping, and laughing their way through a series of fun and energetic races. The field was alive with colour and excitement as pupils cheered each other on.

Sports

Gala Year 1

Year 1 hosted pupils from schools across the local area in the fantastic Summer Super Sports Gala.

From rocket throwing to mini-golf and even a life-sized game of Hungry Hippos with rugby balls, there was no shortage of excitement.

The sportsmanship and enthusiasm shown by the young athletes was truly impressive and the day ended with a well-deserved ice lolly, as everyone wore their medals with pride.

Glorious weather set the stage for a fantastic Prep Sports Day, full of energy and athletic achievement.

Pupils showed lots of determination in their races, while parents and staff also had the opportunity to compete. Field events featured the cricket ball throw and an exciting tug of war.

York House emerged victorious, but everyone gave their best and it was a wonderful day of sport for all.

Guernsey Cricket Tour

The U11A cricket team travelled to Guernsey for their annual cricket tour, playing in a series of exciting matches against Elizabeth College. Beyond the boundary, pupils enjoyed staying with host families, building friendships and memories that will last well beyond the final innings. On the pitch, they were unstoppable - playing with confidence, skill, and great team spirit.

Prep Swimming Gala

Splash, and they’re off! A great time was had by all at the annual swimming gala, which took place at Hampton Open Air Pool. Pupils swam brilliantly for their Houses, and there was plenty of support from the side of the pool. Congratulations to York House who swam their way to victory and were crowned champions of the day.

Art Success

Under the expert guidance of Mrs Adams, several of our pupils entered the annual Independent Association of Prep Schools Art Competition.

This year’s theme, Reflect or Reflection, sparked an incredible range of imaginative responses and the judges were delighted by the creativity and artistic skill shown by all the entrants. We’re thrilled to announce that Anay was awarded First Prize in the Year 5-6 category for his superb sculpture - a fantastic achievement!

Meet The Teacher

We threw some quick-fire questions at Office Manager Mrs Tina Zander:

Have you always been a school Office Manager?

used to work for Topshop on Oxford Street. I was a buyer for merchandise, which was an interesting and challenging job. I loved it.

What inspired you to work in schools? And what made you choose Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep?

My journey into working in schools was very much inspired by my own family. My brothers went to Hampton School, and my sons attended Denmead, so I already had a strong connection with the Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep community from the start.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I've always loved being around children - their energy and curiosity makes working at Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep rewarding. My job is busy and every day is different which keeps me on my toes.

When you’re not busy as Office Manager, what are your favourite pastimes?

I’m a huge fan of exercise - especially running and going to the gym. One of my favourite things is working out with my two sons; it’s a great way for us to stay active together.

Spending time with friends and family always brings me joy, and of course, I absolutely love cuddling up with my springer spaniel, Barney - he’s a big part of our family!

What words of wisdom would you pass on to your younger self?

Believe in yourself.

What is an inspiring quote that you live by?

Sometimes it takes only one act of kindness and caring to change a person's life.

Humanities Day

Humanities Day was a celebration of creativity, curiosity and the power of ideas to shape our world.

The day began with an inspiring talk from Mrs Rainey, a global expert in sustainability, who highlighted the real-world impact of humanities and the importance of creative thinking.

Year 3 and 4 imagined life on Mars, designing innovative space habitats, while Year 5 and 6 tackled the challenge of mega cities, creating futuristic footwear. The outfits were imaginative, resourceful, and reflected a strong commitment to sustainability - a brilliant showcase of how humanities will help shape tomorrow.

Year 5

Residential

The Year 5 trip to Dorset was an adventure from start to finish.

Highlights included a visit to Corfe Castle, and the chance for pupils to try their hand at archery, bushcraft, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

Everyone learned how to make fire with flint and steel, enjoyed a campfire with marshmallows, and even went crabbing, where a cheeky seagull stole Oliver’s sandwich!

Robin Hood

Year 5 and 6 lit up the Hammond Theatre with their spectacular performance of Looking Good, Robin Hood. From the opening scene to the final bow, the cast delivered a show packed with laughter and plenty of fun. With brilliant acting and joyful singing, the pupils brought the legendary outlaw to life with humour and a sense of adventure. The performance ended with a well-deserved standing ovation.

AWESome art

The Living Rainforest

Year 2 embarked on an unforgettable journey through The Living Rainforest, where they were amazed by exotic creatures and fascinating plants at every turn.

A highlight of the day was spotting Cinnamon the two-toed sloth, happily hanging in the trees. Pupils were full of curiosity as they learned about different types of ‘vores - from herbivores and omnivores to the more unusual foliovores.