At the start of the academic year, students took part in a series of tutor bonding activities designed to strengthen friendships, encourage collaboration and foster connections across year groups.
With tutor groups coming together in larger mixed-year communities, students enjoyed a range of activities that provided opportunities to get to know one another outside the classroom and begin the term with a strong sense of belonging.
Across the different groups, food featured prominently as a way of bringing students together. Some explored local cafés and restaurants in Clapham, others gathered for film afternoons with shared snacks, while one group made their own pizzas using the school’s pizza oven. Students also enjoyed lunch outings, including a trip to Pizza Express followed by time on Clapham Common. These shared experiences created a relaxed environment for conversation, laughter and new friendships to form.
For those seeking a more active day, a visit to Gravity Max in Wandsworth provided plenty of friendly competition through activities such as bowling and mini golf. Back at school, students enjoyed card games, sport and other team activities, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.
The day also highlighted the benefits of our vertical tutoring model, which brings students from different year groups together within the same tutor community. By regularly interacting with older and younger peers, students develop a broader support network, build meaningful relationships across the school and learn from one another’s experiences.
These activities were particularly valuable for new students, helping them settle quickly into school life, grow in confidence and feel part of the wider community. Throughout the day, students reflected on their first few weeks of term, shared experiences and began building the relationships that will support them throughout the year ahead.
At LPS Clapham, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom. Creating opportunities for students to connect, collaborate and enjoy new experiences together helps strengthen the inclusive and supportive culture at the heart of our school community, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.