Equipping students with valuable knowledge for life after school.
As part of our partnership programme with Hampton School, our Upper Sixth students recently joined their Hampton counterparts for two insightful and engaging events designed to equip them with valuable knowledge and skills for life beyond school.
Covering important topics including mental health, addiction and financial literacy, the sessions provided opportunities for pupils from both schools to learn from experts, reflect on real-life experiences and consider some of the challenges they may encounter as they prepare for university and adulthood.
Patrick Foster: An Honest Conversation About Gambling Addiction
Former English first-class cricketer, author and gambling-harm educator Patrick Foster delivered a powerful and thought-provoking talk to Hampton and LEH Upper Sixth pupils, sharing his personal experience of a 12-year gambling addiction.
Speaking with remarkable honesty, Patrick explained how his addiction affected multiple areas of his life, ultimately costing him careers in professional sport, insurance and teaching. His story highlighted the devastating impact that gambling addiction can have, as well as the importance of recognising that it can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
One of the key messages of the session was that addiction often thrives in secrecy and shame. It can remain hidden behind an outward appearance of success, making it difficult for those affected to seek the support they need. Patrick encouraged pupils to be aware of the warning signs, look out for friends and recognise the importance of asking for help at an early stage.
The talk formed part of a wider programme of mental wellbeing sessions delivered jointly by Hampton and LEH through their Life Advice programmes. We are extremely grateful to Patrick for sharing his experiences so openly and helping pupils develop a greater understanding of gambling harm, mental health and recovery.
Financial Education: Building Confidence for the Future
In a separate session, Hampton and LEH Upper Sixth pupils came together for a practical financial education workshop delivered by Tennent Financial Education, specialists in providing accessible, jargon-free financial literacy programmes for young people.
With university life fast approaching for many, the workshop focused on the financial decisions pupils will soon need to navigate independently. Topics included budgeting at university, understanding student finance and navigating student loans.
The session provided pupils with practical guidance and useful insights to help them make informed financial decisions, manage their money responsibly and approach the transition to university with greater confidence.
Importantly, the workshop encouraged pupils to think beyond the immediate costs of university and consider the financial habits and skills that will support them throughout adult life.
Preparing for Life Beyond School
Together, these two events reflect the value of our Sixth Form partnership with Hampton, providing opportunities for pupils to explore important real-world is sues alongside their academic studies.
Whether developing an understanding of mental health and addiction or building the confidence to manage personal finances, these experiences help ensure our Upper Sixth students are better prepared for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with Hampton through further events that enrich pupils’ learning and support their personal development.
