Teaching & Learning

The visual language of art and design gives children an additional language to express their ideas and process thoughts.

Through developing a knowledge and practice of key artworks and movements from a wide range of artists and craftspeople, pupils can develop a vocabulary to discuss the visual world and identify skills and processes to interpret it in their unique voice.

Technology is shaping the future our pupils will inherit and our role is to ensure they are prepared to flourish in this world. Computing is taught as a dedicated subject, building key skills in computational thinking, logical reasoning, problem-solving and creativity through programming, coding and robotics.

Lessons take place in the Engine Room. Years 5 and 6 each have a dedicated Chromebook and Years 3 and 4 draw on shared banks of Chromebooks and iPads.

Through Computing and Life Skills, pupils learn to use technology responsibly – principles that are continuously reinforced as they engage with devices across every subject.

Drama helps build self-confidence, self-expression and a strong sense of self-worth. Our pupils have rich opportunities to explore drama through assemblies, end-of-term productions and as a creative thread woven throughout the curriculum.

From exploring character motivation and pivotal moments to debating decisions and expressing emotions, drama brings learning to life across many subjects – helping pupils understand the world and their place within it.

Our aim is to excite, engage and enthuse children with a love of literature and an interest in language.

We understand the central importance of English in relation to all subjects and endeavour to help each pupil achieve their potential. It is taught as far as possible through a stimulating range of literature with an emphasis on lively and engaging discussion. The children are encouraged to use our language imaginatively and accurately.

Based in our bespoke ‘Engine Room’ pupils learn design and construction skills on projects from truss bridges to model electric cars. Through our STEM provision we encourage our pupils to identify the link between theory and practical activities.

Throughout their time in Engineering lessons, pupils develop a curiosity and interest in the man-made world, and through the safe use of tools, design and build their own work.

We believe the best way to learn a language is through fun lessons, games, role play, grammar and translation.

We also explore French culture and the wider francophone world through books, songs, French plays, the national French Primary Bee competition and even a breakfast club with parents – en français, naturellement.

By the end of Year 6, pupils leave with a solid foundation in French and the enthusiasm to go further.

Geography lessons help pupils understand how our planet was formed – and continues to be shaped by both nature and human activity. Grounded in traditional geographical methods, pupils learn to read maps, analyse data, and interpret landscapes, while embracing technology to explore the world in new ways.

Through fieldwork, discussion, and visual investigation, pupils develop reasoning, communication, and creativity, connecting their learning to real-world issues such as climate, settlement, and sustainability.

History combines a strong knowledge base with the ability to think critically about the past. From Ancient Egypt to the modern era, pupils explore how events have shaped societies and ideas, learning not only what happened, but why it matters.

Through reasoning, reflection, and collaboration, they examine evidence, question reliability, and form their own conclusions. Pupils learn to communicate their ideas clearly and confidently, building the analytical skills that help them understand both past and present.

Latin is an extraordinarily enriching subject – connecting past and present, and inspiring a love of learning that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Year 6 pupils follow the Minimus scheme, exploring Latin as both a language and a window into the ancient world. Alongside grammar and vocabulary, pupils develop transferable skills in logical thinking, reasoning and problem-solving – with surprising links to coding, mathematics and a deeper understanding of English and European languages.

Mathematics is fundamental to shaping the leaders of tomorrow. We inspire investigative thinking, encouraging pupils to ask questions, test hypotheses and explain their reasoning – using hands-on resources to focus on process, not just answers.

Beyond the classroom, pupils take part in the First and Primary Mathematics Challenges, competing for bronze, silver and gold medals, while selected pupils represent Hampton in national and local competitions.

Music is a vital part of life at Prep, offering every pupil the chance to discover their talents, build confidence and express themselves creatively. Weekly specialist lessons cover singing, theory, composition, musical appreciation and ensemble work, complemented by workshops and trips to live performances.

Peripatetic teachers offer tuition in piano, violin, saxophone, clarinet, guitar, percussion and voice – and nearly half our pupils take up this opportunity.

Religious Education helps pupils explore the beliefs, traditions, and values of the world’s major religions. Lessons encourage understanding, connection, and respect for different perspectives, as pupils make thoughtful links between faiths and recognise the shared human experience behind them.

Through reasoning, reflection, and collaboration, pupils gain a strong grounding in world religions and develop the empathy and open-mindedness needed to navigate a diverse and interconnected world.

Our bespoke Philosophy curriculum encourages pupils to think deeply, listen carefully, and engage thoughtfully with different perspectives. Through lively discussion and debate, they explore big questions about truth, ethics, logic, and beauty.

Philosophy lessons celebrate the importance of differences in opinion, helping pupils recognise that changing one’s mind through understanding is a strength, not a weakness. Pupils build reasoning, communication, and reflection skills that prepare them for academic challenges and for life beyond the classroom.

Science is vital to every child’s education – sparking curiosity about the world and building the confidence to enquire, investigate and make sense of what they discover.

Our pupils are encouraged to be open-minded and investigative, acquiring knowledge, skills and positive attitudes through practical work and fair testing. Across all year groups, they explore living things, materials and the changing world around them, applying scientific ideas to real events and considering the positive and negative impacts of technological development.

Lessons take place in the Engine Room, and learning extends beyond school through trips to the Science Museum and Marwell Zoo, as well as initiatives such as STEM Day.