PBL Wednesdays Blog Series:

Shaping the Future at Hampstead Academy

Part Three: Why Hampstead Academy Stands Out

“When we create space for children to wonder, question, experiment, and make connections across disciplines, learning becomes more than the acquisition of knowledge—it becomes a way of seeing and engaging with the world. At Hampstead Academy, Project-Based Learning invites students to explore meaningful questions through rich, authentic experiences, while teachers partner with them as guides, helping each child develop the confidence, curiosity, and capacity to apply what they discover in new ways. In this kind of learning, standards and assessment remain important, but they serve a larger purpose: supporting children as they become thoughtful, capable, and lifelong inquirers.”

- Robert Landau, Board Member

PBL Wednesdays represent an unparalleled opportunity for students to engage in learning far beyond traditional academic subjects. While many schools focus solely on grades and test scores, Hampstead Academy is committed to fostering well-rounded, future-ready students who are prepared for college and life.

PBL Wednesdays give students the time, space, and support to explore their interests, develop critical skills, and make meaningful community contributions. In doing so, we set Hampstead Academy apart from other schools that may offer a different level of personalized, real-world learning.

By bundling 20% of our time each week into this innovative practice—buffered by preparation learning through basecamp and hands-on, experiential practice—we ensure that our students master academic content and grow as thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders.

Empowering Leadership and Innovation 

At Hampstead Academy, education empowers students to lead, innovate, and make a difference. PBL Wednesdays are a cornerstone of that vision, allowing students to take control of their learning, engage with the community, and create meaningful work that reflects their passions and interests. Through this unique program, Hampstead students are not just learning for today—they're preparing for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

“PBL Wednesdays are an essential part of our weekly schedule. The students see it as a time to devote themselves to their own inquiry and project work to pursue what they are passionate about in the given topic–now they have time and permission to do this. 

It is also a time when all the students and teachers can collaborate outside of their individual cohorts. Just like in life outside of school, they have the opportunity to work with others based on what areas they are interested in.”

- Rebecca Cummings, Head of School 

Hampstead Academy next PBL Exhibition: 3:00-5:00 pm, March 12th, 2025.