Walhampton School

Walhampton School, located in Lymington, Hampshire, is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school for children aged 2 to 13. Founded in 1948, it merged with Hordle House School in 1997, and today operates under an educational trust with oversight by a dedicated board. The main school building includes boarding accommodations for Year 3 and above, while the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is housed in separate facilities on the site. The school’s mission emphasizes cultivating a love of learning, fostering academic excellence, and providing a well-rounded education. Its core values focus on resilience, creativity, compassion, and a strong connection to nature, promoting both local and broader community engagement.

With 359 pupils, Walhampton mainly serves families from the local area as well as students from London and abroad. A significant proportion of the school’s students come from professional backgrounds, and the school supports a wide range of abilities. Around 78 pupils have been identified with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), 42 of whom receive additional support. Walhampton also offers a modified curriculum for students with high academic ability, and special support for those excelling in sports, arts, music, and technology. Additionally, there are 20 students for whom English is an additional language (EAL), with 14 receiving extra language assistance.

In November 2022, Walhampton was inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for compliance with the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection, conducted over two days, confirmed that Walhampton met all required standards with no further actions necessary.

The school provides a well-rounded curriculum supported by detailed planning and effective teaching practices, which enables students to progress consistently in their studies. There are clear frameworks in place to assess pupil performance and manage behavior constructively. Additionally, boarders benefit from a structured activities program that supports their overall development.

Walhampton fosters the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its students through values that encourage responsibility, tolerance, and law-abiding citizenship. Boarders are given opportunities to express their views, promoting an environment of trust and mutual respect. Relationships education is introduced at appropriate stages with parental involvement in planning.

The school takes pupil welfare seriously, with policies in place for safeguarding, anti-bullying, health and safety, fire safety, and first aid. A comprehensive risk assessment plan underpins these efforts. For boarders, the school ensures proper healthcare, a balanced diet, and adequate contact with family and friends, providing an inclusive, well-supported experience.

Walhampton upholds high standards in staff selection, ensuring all necessary background checks are conducted, with visitors and guardianship arrangements managed effectively to maintain student safety. Facilities are designed to support health, safety, and welfare, with appropriate accommodations for medical needs and dedicated outdoor spaces for physical activities. Boarding facilities are well-maintained to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for students.

The school is transparent in its provision of information, ensuring that key policies, academic performance, and safeguarding practices are readily available to parents and stakeholders. Walhampton’s safeguarding policy is published on its website, along with a statement of boarding principles that outlines the school’s commitment to student care.

Walhampton operates a clear, three-stage complaints process that is recorded and handled impartially, allowing for independent oversight where necessary. The leadership team demonstrates effective management skills, regularly monitoring policies and records to maintain compliance with educational standards while actively promoting student well-being.

During the inspection, inspectors observed classes, engaged with staff and pupils, evaluated extracurricular programs, and reviewed responses from parents, staff, and pupils. They also toured key areas, including boarding and learning resource facilities. Overall, Walhampton School was commended for its commitment to quality education and strong adherence to regulatory standards.