Hampton High

What does leadership look like?

Recently, we had the privilege of hearing pupils share their vision for our school as part of the selection process for our new student leadership team.

We are delighted to introduce Jasper and Ghazal as our Head Students, alongside Nell and Nia as our Deputy Head Students.

Reflecting on the process, our Student Leadership Lead, Ms Southgate and our Head of Year 10, Mrs Martin shared:
"The quality of every candidate that applied for a position was exceptional. We were impressed with the time and thought that they all put into their applications. All the students demonstrated excellent maturity, commitment and aspiration."

One message from our newly appointed leadership team particularly stood out:
"We aim to listen to and support everyone within our community."

Their words reflect a genuine commitment to representing their peers, championing wellbeing and ensuring that every voice is heard.

Ms Southgate and Mrs Martin also shared that they are looking forward to working with the new student leadership team. Their roles will include supporting open evenings and school events, liaising with pupils and staff, taking on a pastoral role with younger year groups and helping to strengthen connections across our wider community.

As they begin this new chapter, we congratulate Jasper, Ghazal, Nell and Nia on this well-deserved achievement. Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room—it is about listening carefully and helping others feel heard.

Our Prefect and Student Council Leaders will be announced shortly.

What do pupils remember most when they leave school?

This week, we welcomed back Kai, a former pupil who joined our Art Department for a few days of work experience. Now studying A Levels in Graphics, Maths and Biology at Esher College, he is exploring a future in animation and graphic design.

As Kai reflected on his journey so far, what stood out was not simply what he learned, but the people who helped him believe in what was possible.

He spoke warmly about the encouragement he received from Mr Sharpe, Ms Connor, Ms Baxter, Mr Gerald and Mr Grieve, and the impact of staff who took a genuine interest in his aspirations and ambitions.

"Staff who really show interest in pupils' aspirations and ideas rather than just curriculum content and grades can really impact us."

Kai also reflected on how experiences such as the LVA programme and time in Mr Ackie's form helped him develop focus, confidence and independence—skills he continues to draw upon at college today.

During his time with us, Kai worked alongside Mrs Canias in the Art Department, who shared that it was a pleasure to have him in the team. She praised his excellent work ethic, his engagement with lessons, and his curiosity about the preparation that happens behind the scenes, adding that she is confident he will do very well in the world of graphic design.

"Working with the art team has made me realise how much goes into education behind the scenes."

Perhaps that is one of the gifts of returning. Time offers perspective.

Kai’s reflections remind us that while qualifications matter, it is often the encouragement, relationships and opportunities to grow that leave the deepest impression.

We are grateful he returned to share his story and look forward to seeing where his creativity, curiosity and determination take him next.

Resilience is less about bouncing back and more about edging forward — carrying what you've learned, adapting to challenges, and continuing to grow.

Our Year 10 boys football team embodied that spirit perfectly in the borough tournament, finishing 2nd overall after losing just one game all afternoon.

What stood out most was the way they supported one another throughout, showing determination, teamwork, and a willingness to keep moving forward from one match to the next.

A fantastic achievement and a group who represented the school brilliantly.

Sport has a unique way of bringing communities together.

Last week, our Year 8 boys finished 4th in the borough tournament after a brilliant run to the semi-finals, narrowly missing out on a place in the final following a closely fought 2–1 game.

Throughout the afternoon, the team showed fantastic determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship — qualities we are incredibly proud to see both on and off the pitch.

A huge thank you to Ms Southgate for continuing to organise opportunities like these and for recognising the importance of bringing young people and local schools together through sport, shared experience, and community.

Thank you as well to Mr Moulds for leading and supporting the boys so brilliantly throughout the afternoon.

There is something powerful about young people competing on the pitch, then walking away feeling part of something bigger than themselves.