Hampton School is a leading school in the UK with an outstanding reputation for all-round excellence. Originally a grammar school its values of academic excellence, social mobility and diversity remain strong. Hampton had no historic endowment fund on which to draw, so the school established a separate charity called the Fitzwygram Foundation to extend free places available to pupils. There are currently 90 boys attending the school on completely free places – almost four times the average of the independent sector.
Luca Cericola: a pupil case study
Luca Cericola was a bright, talented 11-year-old, whose financial circumstances meant he qualified for a free place during his full seven years at Hampton. Alongside achieving straight A grades at A Level, his talent on the rugby field came to the fore. Luca had never picked up a rugby ball before attending Hampton but he became a regular fixture with the Hampton First XV and also played with Middlesex and London Irish Academy.
Luca graduated with a First Class Honours in Biochemistry from Bath, and now, aged 24, he is a trainee solicitor with an established London legal firm. Luca says the offer of a free place at Hampton was a significant turning point in his life:
Luca says: “I remember opening the letter, cheering and crying for joy when I knew I was coming to Hampton. I credit the successes in my life down to that moment. The school supported me and believed in me from day one. Hampton helped to turn me into the person I am today and I will forever be grateful.”
Anthony Hewitt, Director of the Fitzwygram Foundation, wants to increase the support for more young people:
Antony says: “We are extremely proud that Hampton’s free place provision, which also includes extra costs such as uniform, food, and travel expenses, is one of the most generous in the independent sector. Being able to support young people who would not otherwise afford a Hampton education, transforms the lives of the individual boys who benefit. It allows Hampton to remain an inclusive, independent day school, truly connected to our community.”
