WELCOME TO WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON ENRICHMENT @ ABBEY COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE
Wednesday afternoon enrichment is compulsory for all students.
We have made enrichment compulsory because we want to extend and broaden your education by providing opportunities that will help you to develop your leadership skills, build resilience and improve your language skills.
Some enrichment activities will help you develop relationships with the community through our Active Citizen/Volunteering programme whilst others will enable you to delve deeper into things that really interest you.
You can also choose an enrichment activity which will enable you to explore artistic, literary, cultural or sporting activities.
Actively engaging in Wednesday Afternoon Enrichment will support your UCAS personal statement and enable you to have an even more competitive UCAS application.
Enrichment will provide opportunities and ideas that will help you develop your high level thinking skills that will give you a chance to show your real potential and ability at interview. University admissions interviews are all about thinking laterally, applying your thinking to new ideas and different contexts. They are not about reciting what you already know!
Choosing Your Enrichment
This booklet contains a list of activities we will be running in the Autumn term 2024. Read the information carefully before making your decision. Some activities are restricted by age group. You will be able to talk with the staff leading the enrichment activity at our Enrichment Fair during induction.
When you are deciding which enrichment activities to do have a couple of reserves in mind in case you don’t get your first choice. The activities are divided up by themes and it would be good for you to try an activity from each theme. Remember enrichment is all about broadening your horizons and trying things outside your comfort zone!
Each term you will be able to choose new enrichment activities if you wish or you can stay with the same ones if you are involved in a project or sports club. Your teacher will let you know if it is possible to carry on.
Enrichment activities run for 1 or 2 hours. You need to choose either two 1 hour activities or one 2 hour activity.
Attendance
Attendance at your enrichment activity is compulsory.
If you miss your enrichment activity and have not been given permission to be absent your attendance will be recorded as unauthorised.
Remember some of the enrichment activities involve you being part of a team; deciding not to attend will have an impact on the other students and the quality of their enrichment activity. Be a team player and take responsibility for your attendance.
Other clubs and activities
Besides our Wednesday afternoon enrichment activities we also offer a range of clubs and opportunities outside of the school day. e.g. Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, badminton, golf (seasonal), Upper School competitive football and yoga.
There is also a range of clubs and activities organised by the Boarding Team.
Wednesday Enrichment activities, autumn 2024
Running Art Student Lead Conferences
Rowing
Journalism & Publishing (Print/Digital) Spanish
Walking Club Happiness Program Law Boxing Presentation Skills
Activities outside of Enrichment
Open to Year 9, 10 and 11 only
WHY DO ENRICHMENT?
Compulsory for medic students
Open to Year 11, 12 and 13 only
MUSIC
Guitar and Ukulele Band
Abbey Singers
Classical music
Music Theory
Music Performance Masterclass
Songwriting
The list is not exhaustive and may change from that published.
SCIENCE / TECHNOLOGY
STEM – Science for Sustainability
Python/coding club
Masterclasses - Maths, Physics or Chemistry
Medicine Preparation Programme
Discovering Medical Sciences
Maths Beyond the Curriculum
3D Printing and Electronics
THINKING
Young Enterprise
Ted Talks
Abbey Project
Chess
Academic reading
Strategic Thinking
British Culture and Values
Open to Year 12 and 13 only
All other enrichments are open to all students
HEALTH & WELLBEING PROMOTES
CHALLENGE YOURSELF
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
DEVELOP LEADERSHIP
SOMETHING NEW
TEAMWORK & COLLABORATION
ACTIVE ENRICHMENT
Running Club
Do you love running or want to improve your general fitness?
Join the Abbey College Cambridge running club!
Running is a fantastic way to improve your fitness and enhance your own sense of well-being. To be academically excellent you also need to be physically healthy and running is one way for you to stay active.
We will be using the local environment to run and will take you out to green spaces to explore.
BENEFITS
Improving fitness and sense of well-being. Making new friends.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Phil White, Laura Senior.
OUTCOMES
OTHER
Improve general fitness, enter running events at weekends (Park Run, Trail events).
Kit required: Running trainers (We advise trail running trainers as we will be going off road at times), Appropriate running clothing. You also have the option of purchasing a Abbey College Cambridge running jacket.
Football - Junior
You will take part in weekly football sessions which will include fitness work, skills coaching and competitive match experience. You will develop skills in ball control, as well as passing and shooting as well as an understanding of the different positions on the pitch and how each have an impact on the other.
BENEFITS
Developing teamworking skills, improving fitness making friends and having fun! Useful for a career that involves working effectively as part of a team.
YEAR GROUPS Year 10 and Year 11.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF
OUTCOMES
David Savage, Simon Thacker.
You will improve your football skills, as well as your teamwork and decisionmaking during match situations. You will also improve your English as you will need to communicate with others during training and matches.
OTHER Kit required: Football boots and Abbey College PE kit.
Walking Club
On a Walking Club excursion, we explore different parts of Cambridge. It provides us with the opportunity to engage with both our physical and mental capabilities, leading us to appreciate the importance of both. We explore urban and countryside settings, including trips to local parks, botanical gardens and National Trust properties. Whilst we are out and about, you will develop knowledge of road safety in the UK, the County Code, resilience in walking in all weathers.
BENEFITS
Improving fitness and sense of well-being. If you are planning to attempt the Duke of Edinburgh Award, this club can help you with building up your distance walking. Making new friends.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF
OUTCOMES
Alison Bignell, Sarah Webb, Neil McKenzie.
You will be working towards distance medals. It is essential that we preserve the environment, whilst also achieving sustainable economic growth. The Walking Club brings these important goals to the fore.
OTHER Kit required: Walking boots or strong training shoes.
Boxing Club
You will take part in weekly Boxing sessions with an experienced Boxing coach, which will include fitness work, technique and skills coaching. These small group sessions provide you with access to a professional Boxing environment and high-quality coaching.
BENEFITS Developing Boxing skills, improving fitness, making friends and having fun!
YEAR GROUPS Year 11, 12 and 13.
DURATION 3 Hours.
STAFF Kai Wang.
OUTCOMES
OTHER
You will improve your physical fitness and develop Boxing skills. You will then be in a position to join the Boxing club where the session takes place, should you wish to do more in your own time.
Kit required: Dressed in clothing that will allow you to be physically active, bring water, no jeans, no jewellery.
Kick Boxing
Do you want to learn a new Sport or develop existing skills?
Kick boxing is a combat sport and a form of boxing based on punching and kicking, using fists, shins and knees. Kick boxing focuses more on speed and longer combinations. Training sessions (led by Head Coach Amin) start with a warm-up, stretching and mobility. Then we will go into learning different techniques, doing partner drills, pads and bag work. All of this will be tailored to your experience.
BENEFITS
Improving fitness and sense of well-being. Making new friends. Learning a new sport or developing existing kick boxing skills.
YEAR GROUPS Year Groups 11, 12 and 13.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF External Coach, Amin.
OUTCOMES
OTHER
Kickboxing tones muscles, builds mental toughness, increases agility, and improves flexibility. It is an incredible workout for your whole body and mind.
Kit required: Dressed ready to be active, bring water, no jeans, no jewellery. Kick Boxing equipment will be provided but feel free to bring your own if you have it.
Climbing
Do you want to try climbing?! Or continue with an activity you are already interested in?
The sessions will be taught by instructors, and they will cover safety aspects of climbing, knot tying, belaying and general coaching to help you achieve the different levels of routes available on the bouldering wall. Bouldering is a style of rock climbing undertaken without a rope and normally limits you to short climbs over a bouldering mat/soft flooring on a wall no higher than 4.5 metres.
BENEFITS
Improving fitness and sense of well-being. Making new friends. Learn a new sport or develop existing climbing skills.
YEAR GROUPS Year Groups 11, 12 and 13.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF External Coach.
OUTCOMES
Improve general fitness, develop confidence to do more climbing at a club level.
OTHER Kit required: Dressed ready to be active, bring water, no jeans, no jewellery.
Rowing
Experience Cambridge from a whole new perspective – Learn to Row! Rowing is a popular sport for many in Cambridge and a very traditional sport which the University of Cambridge takes part in. Learn to row on the River Cam in an 8 person boat, just like the professionals use. You will be taught by a Rowing Coach and will use the high quality facilities at the City of Cambridge Rowing Club. Sessions will mostly involve on water training in an 8 person boat, but also some indoor training on rowing machines and the opportunity to use an indoor rowing tank to enhance your skills.
BENEFITS
Teamwork skills, apply to join rowing clubs as an existing rower.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Ben Reid.
OUTCOMES
Develop Rowing technique over a 6 week course within a boat of 8. Learn basic technique to a standard (British Rowing Level 1). Students may have the opportunity to enter races within the summer term if a suitable standard is reached.
OTHER Autumn term only.
CREATIVE ARTS ENRICHMENT
Drama Club
Step into the Spotlight! Join our Abbey Drama Society and unleash your potential as a sensational performer! Explore the art of live acting, where stories come alive on stage. Dive into Character Development, creating compelling personas that will mesmerise audiences. Join us in this extraordinary journey of creativity and passion and build your confidence and charisma. The spotlight is waiting for you—come and shine at the Abbey Drama Society!
BENEFITS
Master the importance of articulation, projection, and voice variation in Using Your Voice. Learn the art of active listening and reacting, adding depth and authenticity to your performances. Learn the art of active listening and reacting, adding depth and authenticity to your performances.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Kieron Toner, Russell Bailey.
OUTCOMES
Take part in the Abbey College Drama production.
Improve Your Presentation Skills
No matter if you are a part of finance, editorials, HR, or if you are an entrepreneur or undertaking scientific research, there will always be situations, from presentations to pitches. Such opportunities will knock on the door now and then, and you will find these skills particularly useful at that time.
BENEFITS
Build confidence in presenting and be able to speak in public. You will also ignite your creativity and improve your English.
YEAR GROUPS Year 12 and 13.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Alice Bacon, Neha Kataria.
OUTCOMES
With weekly practice you will be asked to prepare a formal presentation to present at the end of each term. Prepare a presentation and if possible present it in front of staff/students at a gathering here at Abbey college on a relevant occasion/topic.
The Happiness Programme
This is for anyone wanting to live a healthy, happy & well-balanced scholarly life. The Happiness program will promote your holistic development by making you aware of how living in the present can help us enjoy the world around us more and understand ourselves better. It is will also help you to manage day to day stress, improve concentration and improve your attitude towards life.
BENEFITS
The Happiness Program will give you the tools and techniques to keep a healthy body & mind through, yoga, movement, meditation, breathing etc. There will be opportunities for you to appreciate and practice “gratitude & giving” . Explore digital detoxification by engaging in mindfulness activities such as calligraphy, art, drawing, origami etc. and make healthy choices regarding diet and nutrition by partaking in activities such as making health chart etc.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours. Participation for 1 Term only.
STAFF Sim Liggitt, Divya Anand, Lucy Baker.
OUTCOMES
The opportunity to become a Wellbeing Ambassador. Mindfulness Champions.
Journalism and Publishing Student Magazine
Develop a ‘hands on’ insight into the world of journalism and publishing by producing your own student led Student Magazine. Learn about content generation, editing, design, photography and the issues that journalists face on a day to day basis.
Discover the different channels available for the content they create, both in print and online.
Improve your writing skills for your English exams! Improve your speaking skills (doing interviews/surveys)!
BENEFITS
Develop research skills – Primary and Secondary. Be part of the student news team and improve teamwork skills – Leadership and planning. Help to connect students and staff around the world!
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Tory Robeson.
OUTCOMES
Plan and publish two magazines over the course of the year (one in December and one in April).
Generate additional content for online platforms; blogs, vlogs, social media.
Art and Design
Discover your own creative side with the Art and Design. this enrichment is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their design skills and creative skills.
BENEFITS
Develop your creative skills, learn new skills and self-expression. Make friends. No experience required!
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Serena O’Connor.
OUTCOMES
You will have designed and produced your own art work.
COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT
Active Citizen – Volunteering
Abbey Active Citizen programme is all about volunteering in school, the local community or the wider community. It enables you to play an active part in society by helping others whilst at the same time gaining invaluable skills and life experiences. Volunteering may happen outside of enrichment time.
BENEFITS
Volunteering develops your communication and interpersonal skills as you will meet new people. It is good for your physical, mental and emotional health and helps boost yourself confidence. You can also get involved with projects that help the planet.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION
Depends on volunteering activity.
STAFF Tauhida Raquib-Khan.
OUTCOMES
Work towards the Abbey College Cambridge Active Citizen Awards. Supports your Duke of Edinburgh Award. Gain professional experience which you can put on your UCAS form or CV.
Student Lead Conferences
Choose from one of our three student lead conferences:- Hidden Leaders, Equality Diversity and Inclusion and Artificial Intelligence. You will be part of a team that will plan and design a conference for students and host the conference in school. The conference delegates will come from local schools and students will work together on a range of activities related to the conference theme.
BENEFITS
You will develop your leadership skills including team building, negotiation, active listening, creativity and positivity. Improve your English and communication skills. Gain experience of event management and planning. Gain an insight into topical issues. Make new friends.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Carolyn Dunn.
OUTCOMES Conference takes place.
OTHER You will do one conference only.
MUN – Model United Nations
Being part of MUN Club is great experience for anyone interested in a career in Politics, International Relations, Law, Diplomacy, History, Geography, Economics, Ecology, Business, Sustainable Management and many others! We will be involved in developing, delivering and participating in MUN simulations of committee sessions. You will learn how to act with diplomacy and work as part of a team to present a range of viewpoints.
BENEFITS
Develop your public speaking skills, debating and persuading skills as well as your negotiation and leadership skills. Carry out research and producing informal and formal documents, including working papers and resolutions.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Emma Smith, David Shah.
REQUIREMENT Application.
OUTCOMES
Improve speaking and writing in a formal, academic English style. There will be the opportunity to hold our own ACC MUN Conference with a range of committees. We will participate in University level conferences like LSE Youth MUN.
The Law Club
The law club is an excellent way of learning about what is a key institution in any country in the world. The focus is on English law and would be very helpful for anyone studying law, finance, accountancy, business, history and English at university. Learning about the law however comprises many life and social skills from which anyone would benefit. Students learn how the law is structured and delivered in England and Wales. Visits have been arranged to sitting courts in Cambridge where students will observe actual trials and proceedings.
BENEFITS
This will help students to discuss viewpoints and develop opinions. To learn how laws are passed in parliament and developed through the courts and legal system. To have the experience of a courtroom as an observer.
YEAR GROUPS Year 12 and 13.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Bill Gilthorpe, Emma Smith.
OUTCOMES
To develop knowledge and understanding of the law. Gain professional experience which you can put on your UCAS form or CV.
Spanish Club
This enrichment activity will enable you to get introduced to the Spanish language and culture of Spain and Latin America. Spanish is second to Mandarin in number of native speakers (486 millions), and thus, a useful language to learn.
This will be achieved through a number of activities: learning grammar and vocabulary, listening to Spanish music, watching Spanish movies, and consolidating your learning with Duolingo. We might even be able to cook some wonderful Spanish food.
Despite the fact that English has become the world’s lingua franca, learning a foreign language is still incredibly useful. It is an exciting and challenging way to broaden your horizons.
BENEFITS
Learning a foreign language will also help you learn new things in other areas of life and assist you in learning additional skills. The more you practice the process of learning, the quicker and more efficiently your brain will work. You are already learning English, so why not Spanish?
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Susana Rios.
OUTCOMES
You will come out of our club having achieved some understanding of the Spanish language and Spanish/Latin American culture. Through your regular practice you will consolidate your first steps in learning a new language. And you may even discover a lifelong love for another language.
MUSIC ENRICHMENT
Classical Music
Enjoy making and performing music together by playing and arranging music in a small ensemble.
BENEFITS
You will develop your teamwork and also independent work. You will become confident to perform in front of an audience. You will also learn about musical theory or composing/arranging music and will use music software (musescore). There will also be an opportunity to appreciate classical music from different cultures.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Chris Ashford, Niall Holland.
OUTCOMES Performances. New arrangements/compositions. Education of others about music.
Song Writing Club
The Song Writing Club is designed to ignite creativity and enable self-expression through the art of song writing This club provides a supportive and collaborative environment for you to create your own original songs. Embark on a creative journey that begins with crafting lyrics, progresses to developing chord sequences, and culminates in creating memorable melodies! The club provides resources and equipment, including video production tools and loopers for recording, to enhance the musical experience and showcase your compositions to their full potential.
BENEFITS
Student leadership, making new friends, collaboration, the ability to give and receive constructive criticism in a supportive environment.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Andy Barnes.
OUTCOMES
Bring songs to life through performance or recording. You will also have the opportunity to perform or have your songs performed before the wider school in concerts and calendar events.
Music Performance Masterclass
A dynamic and inclusive activity that empowers students to unlock their full musical potential. It cultivates a passion for music, fosters discipline and perseverance, and provides a platform for students to excel as confident and skilled performers. The masterclass provides a supportive and inspiring environment where students receive personalized guidance and instruction from experienced musicians. They are encouraged to set individual goals and work towards achieving them through dedicated practice and exploration of diverse musical genres and styles.
BENEFITS
Regular peer-to-peer performances offer students valuable opportunities to showcase their progress, build confidence, and receive constructive criticism from their peers. These performances foster a collaborative spirit, where students learn from one another and develop an appreciation for different approaches to musical interpretation.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Ed Davison, Chris Johnston-Tierney.
OUTCOMES
Independent learning projects will encourage students to explore different facets of performance, such as music theory, music history, or audio production, enhancing your overall musicianship. Those participating in this activity will have regular opportunities to perform to the wider school at concerts and calendar events.
Abbey Singers
This club provides plenty of opportunities to explore your voice within a group, from learning how to warm up your voice, to sing in unison or in harmonies with other singers, a cappella or accompanied. There are also chances to sing a solo passage within a song for those students who wish to do so.
BENEFITS
You will learn to express yourself and experiment with your voice. Some of you may for the first time try out singing in harmonies! You will develop the confidence to sing in front of an audience and improve your teamwork skills by working towards a performance with your fellow singers. There will also be an opportunity to sing music from different cultures, nationalities and periods.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Tanja Brown, Henry Bertram.
REQUIREMENT
OUTCOMES
Ability to read music. Audition may be requested.
Those participating in this activity will have regular opportunities to perform to the wider school community at concerts and calendar events.
Guitar and Ukulele Band
Have fun learning the world’s most popular instruments! No previous experience is required, and you’ll be able to play and perform in just a few weeks!
BENEFITS
The guitar and ukulele are great ways to get into music; we’ll teach you how to form chord shapes and strum these instruments to your favourite songs. For more experienced musicians, we’ll give you technical guidance to broaden your skills, with opportunities to develop as a soloist, accompanist, or ensemble player. You’ll also learn how to transfer your skills between instruments and instrument types.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Ed Davison.
OUTCOMES
You’ll be able to play simplified versions of the most popular pop and rock songs. You’ll perform in concerts for your fellow students in the club, and in front of the wider school. You’ll have the confidence to play independently and as part of an ensemble.
Music Theory
If you’ve ever wondered why there are twelve different notes on a piano or why the songs on your Spotify play-list can make you feel so many different emotions, this is the Enrichment club for you. Learning the foundations of music theory opens up opportunities for musical hobbyists to work out and play along to their favourite songs by ear but it is also an essential tool for any serious musician who wants to improve their improvisation and composition skills. Maybe you just want to understand what’s going on underneath all the layers of sound or maybe you would like to create your own music. Understanding music theory is a highly effective way to get better at playing instruments, listening to music. It’s also just lots of fun!
BENEFITS
Students learn where the western equal-tempered notes originate from and how to combine them to make interesting and beautiful harmonies, chords and chord sequences. We also cover the principles of rhythm, ear training and effective melody writing. You’ll gain an appreciation for how songs are created and you’ll become a better song writing and performer.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF James Noton.
OUTCOMES
You’ll have opportunities to analyse songs and to compose your own should you wish. You’ll also be able to alter the feel of existing songs by playing with its structure and harmony. Students who write their own songs or make song alterations will be invited to perform and present on the strategies and techniques they used.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ENRICHMENT
Science and Technology – Science for Sustainability
Choose, design and lead your own sustainability project. The main goal of the programme is to develop a sense of agency for achieving sustainability and dealing with climate change.
You will apply scientific ideas to build a more sustainable future by:
• engaging in real world projects and achieving practical change
BENEFITS
• growing your knowledge of how science can be used to implement sustainable solutions
• developing confidence and leadership skills to drive your project forward
• working in a team and cooperating with businesses and community groups
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Bea Gini, Cristina Alves.
OUTCOMES
You will receive the Young Changemakers Programme certificate if you engage with the learning activities and reflect on your project. The programme is assessed by SEEd and provides evidence of all the transferrable skills you will develop throughout the year. Organise and lead the Student Lead Conference on Sustainability February 2025.
Coding Club
The Python coding club aims to give you the opportunity to learn Python with no experience. You will work on multiple different projects including: self-contained applications, group projects and Raspberry Pi based projects.
BENEFITS
During the course of the enrichment activity you will learn a wide range of skills and techniques that will be applied in projects. This will then develop into groups working together to achieve a bigger goal, this might be a more complex program or working with Raspberry Pi components. The skills gained will be useful for you both at University and in your future lives, group work, decision making and discussion are all key components of bigger projects.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 2 Hours.
STAFF Stephen Du Plessis.
OUTCOMES
Every project provides an opportunity to have a usable application, whether that is a dice roller or a more complex project. You will also gain an understanding of Python as a language itself. Python is of increased interest and usage in many academic areas and careers which are related to analysing data as well as Artificial Intelligence.
Maths Beyond the Curriculum
Student led talks on real life mathematical applications beyond the classroom. This enrichment activity is ideal for anyone interested in studying maths or STEM related subjects at university and will delve deeper into maths and other STEM themes.
BENEFITS
You will gain much needed background knowledge in your field of interest and will become more confident in pursuing your field of their interest. You will also develop research skills and presentation skills as well as leadership skills through student led talks and discussions.
YEAR GROUPS Year 12 and Year 13.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Edward Lyria.
OUTCOMES
You will be given awards based on presentations through different categories, such as most inspiring and most engaging.
Year 12 Medicine Preparation Programme
A compulsory session for year 12 students planning to make a future Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science university application in the following academic year. The session will involve making applications to clinical shadowing and volunteering placements in medical settings as well as learning about doctor skills and attributes, medical ethics, the NHS, learning to answer a range of university interview questions and exploring science topics beyond the curriculum.
BENEFITS
You will learn to improve your problem solving, communication skills, collaborative working and increase your self-confidence. You will ultimately strengthen your application to medical school.
YEAR GROUPS Year 12 Medics - Compulsory.
DURATION 1 Hour Term 1 & 2 Hours Term 2.
STAFF
OUTCOMES
Sephora Day, Nick Holmes.
1. Complete Observe GP and Brighton and Sussex Medical School online courses (Medicine applicants only) or Future learn courses (Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine applicants only)
2. Write a personal CV
3. Make clinical shadowing applications to local hospitals, GP or Dentist or Veterinary clinics
4. Make applications to healthcare settings to attain volunteer work
5. Learn the necessary doctor skills and attributes
6. Learn Medical Ethics and how to apply them to difficult ethical scenarios
7. Learn about the history of the NHS, its structure and function, explore its challenges and consider solutions to them
8. Consider a range of university interview questions and rehearse answers
9. Discover a range of Biomedical topics beyond the A-level specification
Year 13 Medicine Preparation Programme
A compulsory session for year 13 medic students making medical school applications in the current academic year or as a future alumni. The club will train students to excel at answering Medical School University interview questions.
BENEFITS
Learn to answer questions about difficult science topics, medical ethics, teamwork, leadership, problem solving, doctor skills and attributes the NHS and personal insight. You expand on the learnings of the year 12 Medicine Preparation Program and continue to improve your problem solving, communication skills, collaborative working and increase your selfconfidence. You will further strengthen your application to medical school.
YEAR GROUPS Year 13 Medics - Compulsory.
DURATION 1 ½ Hours for the Autumn Term only.
STAFF
OUTCOMES
Sephora Day, Nick Holmes.
1. To rehearse a range of interview questions 2. To experience a full mock MMI session
3D Printing and Electronics
Learn to design and print with a 3D printer, construct electronic circuits. This enrichment is a good option if you are thinking about a career in product design engineering, electrical and electronics engineer, materials science or architecture.
BENEFITS
Learn how to design 3D models and print them, as well as develop prototype circuits and solder them. You will also learn how to use modelling software.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Paul Bushen.
• Design and produce PLA plastic objects,
OUTCOMES
• Integrate circuits to produce functional and decorative objects
Years 9-11 Discovering Medical Sciences
An exploration club for students in years 9, 10 and 11 who are considering future Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science university applications as well as other health related fields. The session will involve researching career options as well as being introduced to the NHS, debating difficult medical cases, conducting fun practical experiments, understanding the requirements for making medical school applications, having a go at some UCAT questions and researching diseases, diagnostic techniques and treatments.
BENEFITS
You will learn about different careers and fields in medicine and related sciences. A good introduction for those who have future aspirations to study medicine or other health related fields
YEAR GROUPS Years 9, 10 and 11.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF
OUTCOMES
Sephora Day, Nick Holmes.
1. Research and present on careers related to health
2. Research and present on diseases, diagnostic techniques and treatments
3. Completion of a career quiz
4. Completion of fun experimental projects related to health
5. Discuss and debate the right and wrong decision to make for controversial medical cases
6. Begin to understand the NHS
7. Have a go at solving UCAT head twisting puzzles
8. Understand the requirements for making a medical school application
9. Application to work experience opportunities at Addenbrooke’s Hospital (yr11 only)
THINKING ENRICHMENT
Academic Reading
The Academic Reading will provide you with the opportunity to read a wide variety of self-selected texts on a range of interests and disciplines. The course will contain a great deal of academic language related to the students’ subjects and will require upper-level thinking skills. The passion, communication and empathy that derive from reading are essential for the sophisticated skills demanded by high-level professional work in the world we live in today.
BENEFITS
Extensive reading is extremely beneficial since it provides remarkable amounts of comprehensible input, defined as exposure to compelling reading above your current language ability. By capturing your own sense of agency and choice, you will effectively build your reading ability, vocabulary development, self-confidence, and motivation.
YEAR GROUPS Year 12 and Year 13.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF John Morgan, Alistair Gray.
OUTCOMES
The outcomes gained from this enrichment are far-reaching: you increase your ability to comprehend a wealth of stimulating issues, enhance essential reading skills, develop invaluable study habits, and widen your breadth of knowledge on a range of subject matter.
Strategic Thinking
Welcome to the Strategic Thinking Enrichment Club, where we will embark on an exciting journey into the world of strategic board gaming. Get ready to enhance your critical thinking, decision-making, and probability skills while having fun!
BENEFITS
Develop your strategic thinking skills. Foster teamwork and collaboration. Enhance your probability and risk assessment abilities and cultivate adaptability and flexibility through fair play and sportsmanship.
YEAR GROUPS Year 10 and Year 11.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Matthew Taylor, John Hughes.
Strategic thinking:
• Decision-making
• Probability and risk assessment
OUTCOMES
• Tactical planning
• Communication and teamwork and sportsmanship
• All relevant to careers in business management and consulting & analysis
TED Talks
Through the development of a detailed research topic of your choice, the aim is to ultimately present your research, in the form of a short presentation, to a small audience. Supported by a series of 13 ‘explorations’ you will begin by considering what makes a great TED Talk, how to create an interesting ‘story line’ for your research and lastly, how to structure and finally present a piece of research to an audience in a meaningful and engaging way. Ted Talks is the club for you if you are interested in research, journalism, teaching, lecturing, marketing and sales, doctors, scientists in fact any career that requires researching and presenting ideas in a formal and engaging way.
BENEFITS
You will gain research skills, the skills of giving fair feedback, debating and communication skills, higher order thinking skills and presentation skills. Students will learn how to overcome challenges and face their fears!
YEAR GROUPS All students.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Jo Dickerson.
OUTCOMES
You will aim to formally present your research topic to a small audience which is connected to the global platform of Ted Ed. You will gain recognition for having been part of the TED Ed platform.
Young Enterprise
Young Enterprise was founded in 1962 based on the successful Junior Achievement programme and its ability to foster work readiness, entrepreneurship, financial literacy skills and its philosophy of “learning by doing”. Every year thousands of young people are able to develop their employability and financial literacy skills through YE’s programmes and services.
The Company Programme empowers you to set up and run a student company (up to 32 students in a team) under the guidance of an external business volunteer.
BENEFITS
Participants gain practical business experience and key skills. You will set up and run your own student company. You will make all the decisions about your business, from deciding the company name and product to managing the company finances.
YEAR GROUPS All Year Groups.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF TBC.
OUTCOMES
You will gain the practical business experience, adaptability, entrepreneurial mindset and employability skills needed to secure successful futures. Plus, you get to keep your profits!
British Culture and Values
This enrichment activity will ‘Enable you to fully participate in the social and cultural life of the UK now and at university.’
This will be achieved through a range of activities including critical reading of UK media, listening to podcasts, the use of Financial Times Resources. Through debate on the Party Manifestos – 2024 will be an election year and listening to outside speakers.
Attend an event at possibly the Cambridge Film and/or Literary Festival.
BENEFITS
You will gain skills and knowledge around UK life, debating and critical analysis of media print and digital. Very useful skills for a career in journalism, communication or management.
YEAR GROUPS Year 12 and Year 13.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF David Tilley.
Ability to access a wider and richer university experience
Increased self-confidence
Improved language skills
OUTCOMES
Better ability to perform in future interviews
Broader general knowledge
Attend an event at possibly the Cambridge Film and/or Literary Festival
Chess
The chess enrichment is a great way to learn and master a hobby that you can participate for the rest of your life, whether online or in person with friends.
BENEFITS
Developing strategic thinking and mental stamina.
YEAR GROUPS Years 9, 10 and 11.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Stephen Philip.
OUTCOMES
Introduce or improve yourself with one of the oldest and most popular games in the world. Improve your technique and confidence by playing with other students at different ability levels. Meet new friends and bond in a new way outside the academic classroom.
Abbey College Project
Extend and develop your knowledge beyond the curriculum through undertaking an independent research project on a topic of your choosing. This can be related to your chosen career or just something that really interests and excites you. Academic research and report writing are important skills needed across many subjects and career pathways including medicine, scientific research, business, economics. Many degree courses require you to undertake academic research too.
BENEFITS
Develop your independent research and project management skills. Deepen your knowledge of a particular topic. Learn how to write a write an academic report. Develop your presentation skills .
YEAR GROUPS Year 10 and Year 11.
DURATION 1 Hour.
STAFF Darren Kelly.
OUTCOMES
Identify a research project. Produce a written academic report. Present your research.
CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE OF ENRICHMENT
Clubs and Activities
As well as the Wednesday afternoon activities and clubs, the Boarding Team also run a number of clubs and activities during the evening and at weekends.
There are also trips both in the UK and overseas that happen during the holidays. Recent overseas trips have been to Rome, Iceland and Zanzibar.
All of these activities add to your experience of being here at Abbey Cambridge and provide you with opportunities to develop new skills, learn new things and improve existing skills as well as having fun with your friends.
We encourage all students, whether you are a boarder or a day student, to get involved in these clubs and make long lasting memories of your time here.
BOARDING RUN CLUBS
Boy’s Football (over 16) - Competitive & recreational
Girl’s Football
Badminton - Competitive & recreational
Table tennis
Tennis
Basketball - Competitive and recreational
Volleyball - Competitive and recreational
Dance
Swimming
Book Club
Film Club
Debate Club
Games Club
Cooking Club
Photography Club
Faith Exploration Club
Clubs are subject to change depending on demand. If you are interested in an activity/club which is not listed, then talk to your Head of House. The list is not exhaustive and may change from that published.
Abbey College Cambridge Homerton Gardens
Cambridge CB2 8EB
Tel: +44 (0) 1223 578280
www.abbeycambridge.co.uk
https://bit.ly/3YCQdCW
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