Welcome to the Second Year Blog!
It has been another fantastic week in Second Year, packed with opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and get involved in the huge range of activities that make life beyond the classroom so exciting. Whether through sport, music, technology, creative writing, leadership opportunities or co-curricular clubs, our pupils continue to demonstrate enthusiasm and ambition.
One of the great strengths of Second Year is helping pupils to discover the activities that suit them best. Some pupils thrive on the sports field, others shine on stage, while many are developing new passions through clubs and creative projects. This week’s blog showcases just a few of the many ways our pupils are embracing these opportunities and finding the activities that match their talents and interests.
No Limits Day!
This week, Second Year pupils embraced No Limits Day, a Hampton initiative designed to encourage creativity, curiosity and a willingness to approach learning in different ways. The title deliberately places no restrictions on lessons, allowing teachers and pupils to explore learning beyond the usual boundaries. Activities across the day included collaborative group work, oracy and discussion tasks, presentation activities, creative lesson approaches and opportunities to take academic risks by tackling new challenges and unfamiliar ways of thinking. The day provided pupils with the chance to develop confidence, teamwork and communication skills whilst discovering that learning can take many different forms.
Music Scholars’ Concert: Rising to the Challenge
For pupils with a passion for music, the Music Scholars’ Concert provided a wonderful opportunity to perform in front of an audience and showcase months of hard work and dedication. The concert was a celebration of talent across the year group and highlighted the rewards that come from commitment, practice, and perseverance. Let’s hear from Andreas:
The Music Scholars’ Concert was a magical event where people get to play with their passion and fill the hall with music. This was one of the best musical concerts, placing an extremely high standard for the rest of the year.
It started off with our rehearsals, our chance to get used to the environment around us and connect with the instruments. It was during lunchtime when I walked into the Hammond, my hands were shaking whilst holding my book. There were many questions to be asked: Was I really ready for this? Was I going to make mistakes? Was I prepared well enough? The questions all bothered me, even the last little details scared me.
I was scheduled to play in the second half. To be honest, I would’ve preferred to be in the first half, as I could finally play my piece, get rid of my nerves and enjoy the rest of the concert. Everyone was playing magnificently, and I hoped I would play just as well. The second half came pretty quickly, as the concert was interesting and time flew by quickly. Then it was my turn. I walked on stage and sat down, nerves completely engulfing me. What if my first note was wrong? I placed my hands on the keyboard and played. All my nerves completely left me, and I played with passion, perfectly. By the end of the piece, I felt ecstatic.
After the concert, I felt very proud; I had just achieved a great milestone in my musical career. I was ready for the next challenge.
By Andreas C (2B)
Take a look at just some of the highlights below and see if you can spot any Second Years:
Creating Worlds Through Writing
Creative opportunities extend well beyond the classroom, and Eesa K has been channelling his imagination into writing his own fantasy novel.
Over the Summer holidays I read the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Pauloni. It was a gripping and exciting fantasy story based on dragons, but what was the most outstanding part was that it was written by a 15-year-old boy. This not only shocked me but inspired me to write my own story. So, I put together a team of writers, editors and illustrators in my class to bring my ideas to life.
The Plot. I had already planned the lore and characters; here you can meet a few of them:
Sadoritas Voltaris: The dark and savage ruler of Eukaria the land the story is set. Here is an excerpt about it: ‘The lord momentarily frowned, but it soon turned into a cruel grin. He knew what was to be done to wretched creature.’
Availius Mythric: A young, kind-hearted man with a desire to explore and right all wrongs. He is the protagonist. Here is a line about him: ‘He loved his cottage. It was a simple, shabby hut with a hay roof, but he loved it anyhow. That feeling of coming home to his father was the sole thing that empowered his joy. Still, though, he wondered what life was like outside the forest. He had often been told that great and evil lurked outside, yet he could never rest his endless curiosity and wished he could explore…’
Cassian Tiberius: An old intelligent magician who is the last of his race. He bears great knowledge and holds Availius as his apprentice. Here is a line depicting him: ‘Cassian Tiberius gazed at the stars from his tent. He loved looking at the stars. They could tell you so much. Yet no one was omniscient enough to realise the beauty of the knowledge that came from them. After all he was the last of the Magicians, last of the magic-bearing.’
There are just a few snippets from the story. I am really excited to see how our characters proceed and the lore expands. I would say that this story represents the importance of remaining ambitious because within the lines of my coming book there are hundreds of failures which will slowly lead towards success.
By Eesa K (2F)
Success on the Sports Field
Sport continues to play a significant role in Second Year life, with pupils enjoying both competitive fixtures and opportunities to represent the School. Alongside their football commitments, pupils also had the opportunity to compete in the U13 Richmond Borough Badminton Tournament, showcasing their skill and sportsmanship against pupils from other local schools. Events such as these provide valuable opportunities for pupils to challenge themselves, represent Hampton with pride and develop confidence through healthy competition.
With fixtures and tournaments continuing throughout the term, pupils are demonstrating the teamwork and sportsmanship that make school sport such an important part of life at Hampton.
Let’s Go Hampton!
Rugby Roundup
On Saturday the U13A and B teams played Kings College Wimbledon at rugby.
As the A team kicked off, KCS were immediately on top of us winning some of the rucks and carrying the ball hard into contact. Even though they were in our own half for the first ten minutes, we were still able to halt them from getting to our five-metre line. Shortly after they were able to break through our defensive line and score the first try of the game. In the next five minutes we were able to get the ball wide to Lewie, on the wing, who was able to gain many yards on the opposition before quickly getting the ball back across the pitch to Owen who ran past KCS and scored our first try. The final five minutes of the first half, we gave away a free try to them which going into the break put them ahead.
As the second half started, we were able to get right up the pitch near their 22-yard line and win the ball back. We got the ball to our forwards, who pounded at their defence, and Hampton were able to pass it wide to find Owen again who sprinted for the corner and put the ball down on the try line. The third try came a few seconds later after Lucas had kicked off. Sam and Lewie were immediately able to overpower KCS. Seeing this I was quickly behind them for support and picked up the ball from the back of the ruck. I ran down the blind side for half the pitch as none of the KCS players were covering it. I touched the ball down on the try line giving Hampton their third try, making the score 15-10.
After that we were really hyped up as it was the first time, we had been up in this game. As Lucas kicked off again, we were immediately on KCS, soon regained possession of the ball, spun it out to Owen for his third try. Soon after he scored his fourth try before KCS scored one more before full time.
Great win for Hampton U13A’s. Final score 25-15.
By Ren F (2L)
Football Roundup
It was on Monday when I faced the KGS’s C team. We knew this would be a challenge, but we were confident to win. It was my first match for the E’s, and it was a tense one. The game kicked off. It was a strong start for us although we failed to score. But then halfway through the half, Jasper S (2W) sped down the wing and smashed it into the roof of the net. We knew that this wasn’t going to be this easy. This rest of the half played out in a topsy-turvy game. In the second half, Mr Zannettou gave a good speech and went into the second half fired up. After James H (2W) found me with a pass and I took a shot, I agonisingly struck the post, but Nicolas M (2G) struck it straight into the top corner. Halfway through the half, he scored again with a thunderbolt into the same corner. Now we were in the flow of the game, but one counterattack proved deadly – it was 3-1. They had hope and we needed to banish the hope away. Attack after attack, we just couldn’t find our way through. But near the dead end of the game, Isaac R (2W) on his birthday, struck an incredible bicycle kick into the net. We shook hands and went home with a strong 4-1 win.
By Pesandu W (2W)
On Monday, the U13F played Kingston Grammar School. We had all been looking forward to it the whole day and finally the game was about to start. We were discussing the positions and tactics with our coach Mr Boyes, but we knew it was going to be hard as we were playing their D team. Then finally the game had begun, it was all going well until their attack broke through and scored a great goal. All our hope was gone. But that was not going to stop us. So, we didn’t give up and we kept on trying. After a few minutes, a cross came in and we scored a beautiful goal. We all felt so happy, but it wasn’t over yet, so we stayed focused and ready for anything. After a few more minutes we had scored more goals. We went into half time feeling so happy as we were winning 7-1. After going over everything we felt ready to play and score even more goals. As we started, we realised it was much harder as Kings hadn’t given up, they played even better but that didn’t stop us so we had to try as hard as we could winning all the tackles and dribbling past them all. Our defence stopped all the attacks, and we even scored more goals. Some of our players even scored hat-tricks. So, when the final whistle blew our goal had been accomplished – we had a well-deserved win with a score of 11-1. Both teams had played so well though, with everyone feeling proud.
By Dax S (2J)
Co-Curricular Adventures
One of the best ways for pupils to discover new talents is through our co-curricular programme, and Code Ninjas continues to attract enthusiastic young programmers.
Noah R shares his experiences of learning Python programming and creating intricate visual patterns through coding. Open to complete beginners and experienced coders alike, the club offers pupils the chance to develop problem-solving skills while creating exciting projects. Supported by teachers and Sixth Form mentors, pupils learn that coding can be both creative and rewarding.
Over the past few weeks, it has been great to see so many pupils coming along to Code Ninjas, where we have been learning how to create impressive visual patterns using Python.
No prior coding experience is needed at all. Python is beginner-friendly, simple to pick up, and open to everyone, whether you are completely new to programming or already have a bit of practice. The sixth formers and teachers are always there to help debug any tricky errors or help with your own design ideas. You will get to code scripts step-by-step and see your cool patterns instantly.
I highly recommend dropping by to give it a try, it is a great way to make the most of your lunch break, build cool projects and learn a genuinely useful skill.
We meet every Monday at 12:35 PM in Room G64, and all you need to bring along is your laptop.
By Noah R (2P)
Curiosity Beyond the Curriculum
Our pupils continue to show a wonderful curiosity about the world around them.
Avirat P introduces World Space Week, explaining its origins and highlighting this year’s theme of “Rocket Revolution”. His article explores how space exploration continues to evolve and how international collaboration has helped shape our understanding of space.
Similarly, Felix P examines World Animal Day and encourages us all to think about animal welfare through this year’s theme, “See the world through their eyes.” His thoughtful piece reminds us of the importance of considering how our actions affect animals and the wider environment. These contributions showcase the intellectual curiosity and awareness that pupils develop through their studies and personal interests.
World Space Week
This week is World Space Week; the largest annual space event in the world. It was proclaimed in 1999 by the United Nations general assembly, and it coordinates tens of thousands of space education and outreach events across more than 100 nations. These can be things like museum exhibitions, stargazing nights, rocket launches and public talks hosted by space agencies like NASA. A unique global theme guides to focus each year; the 2026 theme is Rocket Revolution, which highlights reusable boosters (things that make the rockets fly in space), commercial launch providers, and how lower launch costs are expanding access to space.
The reason it is celebrated is because on the 4 October 1957, the launch of Sputnik 1 happened which was the first human-made satellite to orbit Earth, which officially opened the doors to space exploration. It ends on 10 October because, on 10 October 1967, the Outer Space Treaty entered into force, which provides the foundational international framework for space law. This is a little introduction to space week, if you weren’t aware of it, and I hope you enjoyed.
Below is a picture of google home page at the start of space week 2026 (this is how I came to know about world space week).
By Avirat P (2H)
World Animal Day 2026
Last Sunday, it was World Animal Day. This is a day that is set aside each year to raise the status of animals around the world and improve their welfare. This is in the hope of improving animal welfare and ensuring animals around the globe can thrive in environments that meet their needs.
The theme for this year’s edition was “see the world through their eyes.” People were encouraged to consider what animals may be feeling in order to make better decisions for them. In a world where human actions are heating up the planet and causing things such as extreme weather, it is important to remember that it doesn’t just affect us humans. It affects animals too.
This is the commemorative stamp for this year, created by illustrator Emma Jayne. This World Animal Day, we are urged to shift our perspective, put ourselves in the animals’ shoes and that way our decisions will change for the good.’
By Felix P (2B)
Pupil Leadership in the Classroom
Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is also about sharing it.
Aahil U recently experienced what it was like to become a teacher for a lesson. Having successfully completed a series of coding challenges in Computer Science, he was invited to support his classmates by explaining concepts and asking questions. The experience gave him a unique insight into teaching and leadership, while allowing him to help others develop their understanding
Today, I became a teacher! Usually, I would say I am a Second Year pupil, but today that changed. In Computer Science, we are currently doing Python programming in Thonny. I think this is an interesting topic, and it is one of my strengths. We were doing Selection, where we used the functions “if” and “else” to determine whether something was true or false. I had done the bronze, silver, and gold challenges, and platinum extension.
When I told my Computer Science teacher, Mr Wong, I expected a reply of something like ‘here is another extension’. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised to hear him say “Why don’t you give teaching a go?”.
He let me ask questions to my classmates and explain the exercise we were doing, which was determining whether a test score was a pass or a retest. I could not believe that I was allowed to give merits out! And detentions too! (Luckily, no-one got one as everyone was well-behaved).
At the end I received a vigorous round of applause and got two merits myself. Now, if I ever want to be a teacher, I can put on my application that I had a day of Teacher Training when I was 12!
By Aahil U (2G)
2F Question of the Week
If you could be any animal, what would you be?
This week, 2F had a fantastic discussion about animals and the different reasons we might choose to be one. The class came up with some creative and thoughtful answers!
Rayan S chose a killer whale because he would love to experience life underwater, explore coral reefs, and hunt for prey. He also liked the fact that killer whales are powerful animals with very few natural predators.
Ayaan S picked a sea sponge because of their bright colours and, of course, the possibility of being a bit like SpongeBob SquarePants!
Kayan A chose a vulture, explaining that vultures get to eat the leftovers from other animals’ hunts, meaning they don’t have to do all the hard work themselves.
Ronak B selected a tiger after seeing one during a visit to India. He was inspired by their beauty, strength, and impressive presence.
Christian W would like to be a snow leopard because they are strong, powerful, and larger than many other big cats. He also likes how they can blend into the mountains and move around unseen.
Alexander D selected a great white shark because it sits at the top of the food chain and is known for its strength and power.
It was wonderful to hear such a variety of answers and the thoughtful reasons behind them. From the depths of the ocean to the snowy mountains, 2F certainly showed plenty of imagination!
Looking Ahead
With just one more week to go before a well-deserved half-term break, our Second Years have plenty to look forward to. We hope pupils continue making the most of the opportunities available, whether that be in the classroom, on the sports field, through music and drama, or within one of Hampton’s many co-curricular clubs.
Half-term will provide a chance to recharge, spend time with family and friends, and, for many, celebrate Halloween with all the excitement that comes with it. Before then, we encourage pupils to finish the first half of the term strongly, embracing every opportunity and continuing to contribute positively to the Second-Year community.
Quiz of the week
Welcome to the Quiz of the Week! Each week, we’ll be putting your knowledge to the test with five general knowledge questions. Why not have a go yourself and see if you can get full marks, or challenge family and friends at home to see how they fare?
Merits are awarded to all those who get five correct answers. This week’s quiz is about all things October, why don’t you have a go over the weekend:
Here are the answers to last week’s quiz:
- October gets its name from the Latin word octo. What number does octo mean? 8
- Which famous scientist was born in October 1881 and developed the theory of relativity? Albert Einstein
- The leaves on many trees change colour in autumn. What pigment makes leaves appear green during spring and summer? Chlorophyll
- October’s birthstone is believed to display a rainbow of colours. What is it called? Opal
- Which delicious Mexican street food is celebrated in October? Tacos
Well done to the following Second Year Hamptonians who answered everything correctly – Mason C, Ren F, Yifan C, Alex W, Avyan A, Hiu Yeung K, Kevin W, Julian H, Harrison S, Guy H, Barney D, Tom W, Luca A F, Ahrin K, Aryun R, Ethan V, Arav B and Alex B.
