Yesterday afternoon, the James Hall was positively fizzing with curiosity and delight as we welcomed pupils and staff from more than ten local primary schools to Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep. Alongside our own enthusiastic Year 1 scientists, our visitors joined us for a ‘Spectacular Science’ afternoon!
Proceedings began with the careful (and, in some cases, wonderfully inventive) construction of scientific apparatus (in this case, a very effective catapult type device). It was heartening to see that the occasional wobble or misstep was not a cause for frustration but rather an invitation to think again, adjust, and improve. Indeed, some of the most valuable learning of the afternoon emerged precisely from these early moments of trial and refinement from pupils in every group.
Once equipment was at the ready, the real magic began. The remainder of the pupils’ time together was devoted to scientific enquiry in its purest and most authentic form, even if these very young participants might not have quite recognised it by that name. Across the James Hall there was purposeful hypothesising, energetic experimenting, thoughtful discussion, careful testing (and re-testing), and, finally, the proud sharing of conclusions. All of this unfolded in the most cheerful and collaborative spirit. Our sincere thanks go to Mrs Morris, our excellent Head of Science, whose calm organisation and infectious enthusiasm ensured that the afternoon struck just the right balance between rigour and joy.
Events such as this remind us that no pupil is too young to begin engaging with the habits of mind that underpin the scientific method. Learning from mistakes, refining ideas and persevering in the face of uncertainty are not merely scientific skills, they are essential skills for life. None of us is perfect and living with mistakes and error is part of the human condition. What truly matters, in my view, is learning how to respond: to reflect, to recalibrate and to set off once more in the right direction. If we can nurture that quiet resilience and thoughtful curiosity in our youngest learners, we equip them not only for future science lessons, but for the many challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
