Hampton 10+ 2020

[TriTri82]

Is anyone’s DS doing the Hampton 10+ this Saturday? I’m hoping the new lockdown doesn’t affect it. Be good to hear from others in the same boat.

@MumboJumbo20 Thank you so much for your reply. Congratulations on your son getting an offer. My DS is sitting the exam in 6 weeks time & I’m just wanting to prepare him as best I can. He’s strong in Maths, not so much English, so we’ve been focusing on this area the most. He’s been doing practice papers, is there anything else you’d recommend to prepare for the creative writing paper? If we get through to the interview stage any advice for that would be gratefully received. He’s not shy & he will happily chat, I guess I’m worried he’ll go off on a tangent. Thanks so much again

Your son sounds a lot like mine in that mine is very strong in Maths, he absolutely loves it, but English- not so much. 10+ last year was just Maths and Creative Writing, due to covid and wanting to make the exam as short as possible whilst still being able to properly assess the child. We didn’t tutor, just did some Maths at home to go over problem questions etc.
On the creative writing front, your son will likely have a picture or continuation. I think the children only had one choice but I could be wrong. I know it’s been said before but reading was the best preparation for CW. Is there comprehension this year? You sound well prepared, so good luck.

Interview was very relaxed and friendly - interests, hobbies, learning about the child. My son is more on the shy side, but not really that shy once he’s in his comfort zone. He really enjoyed the interview and was made to feel very comfortable. He doesn’t get nervous by these sorts of things, which amazes me.

One thing I would say about Hampton is that the admissions team were excellent in communicating and gave a really good impression of the school - no ounce of snootiness, arrogance etc throughout the process. That was confirmed when we finally visited the school and met them in person.

I agree. They just make questions that DS can see through rather than prep for. Obviously basic maths is needed too.