Beyond academic studies

The academic pressure may well grow in these GCSE years, but our co-curricular programme retains its prominence in day-to-day life.

Opportunities for involvement in drama and music are plentiful and many Middle School pupils take on lead roles in plays and performances throughout the year. With growing levels of confidence and ability, pupils also perform regularly at events such as ‘Live @ the Pav’ and look to join senior choirs and bands.

Clubs and activities are still an integral part of the school day and a range of new clubs and activities are introduced at this point, such as Debating, Dungeons & Dragons, the Philosophy Society and the Sailing Club. There are also opportunities for students to look to the future with a Medical Focus Group and Amnesty International club.

Opportunities for overseas travel are plentiful; there is the Middle School Ski Trip, a number of sports tours, as well as subject specific trips, such as a History trip to the World War One battlefields.

A popular cookery course, run by Vaughan’s Kitchen, is also offered, and this leads on to a more comprehensive Sixth Form qualification, giving pupils the opportunity to work as a chef in ski chalets, and/or on boats, during Gap years.

Throughout these two years, pupils not only learn and develop numerous life skills, but they also further develop many of their true interests and passions, all of which stand them in good stead as they move into their final two years at school.