Oundle Opportunities
02 I OUNDLE OPPORTUNITIES
Inside this issue Welcome .......................................... 3 Working with your Tutor...... 4 Art........................................................... 5 Academic Societies and Surgeries................................ 6 Charitable Ventures................. 8 DET........................................................ 9 Drama............................................... 10 Duke of Edinburgh...................13 Electives........................................... 15 Music.................................................. 21 OSCAR Radio.............................. 22 Spirituality and Service....... 23 Sport................................................... 24 Combined Cadet Force (CCF).................................................. 25 Community Action (CA)...... 27 Other Wednesday Afternoon Activities............... 28 2
OUNDLE OPPORTUNITIES
03 I WELCOME
Welcome Many things make Oundle a special place to live and study, and we are lucky to do so. Foremost among them was F W Sanderson’s vision 125 years ago of a School with an opportunity for everyone: the chance for all to be gripped by something new, to thrive and to excel. His vision sits as strongly at the heart of Oundle today as it did in 1900. This booklet tells you about the opportunities open to you in 2026/27, and how to make the most of them. Each activity is run by an extraordinary person who is committed and passionate about their activity: something that has given them joy, and that they want to share with you. Happiness in life is found through a blend of identity, belonging and purpose: the opportunities open to you here offer you the chance to develop all three, don’t let them pass you by. It doesn’t matter if you have no experience of an activity, or if your first forays into it are unsuccessful. We learn more in life from our failures than from our successes, and no-one is going to give you a grade. Your time at Oundle will pass very quickly, and the chances you have while you are here might not come your way again. Make the most of all the opportunities here at Oundle and I promise you will make memories and friendships that last for life.
Mr Andrew Mansergh Deputy Head Co-Curricular
OUNDLE OPPORTUNITIES
Breadth and balance in equal measure.
3
04 I WORK WITH YOUR TUTOR
How to work with your tutor
3 12
Your Tutor will discuss your ideas and aspirations with you in tutorials, setting goals at the start of the year and encouraging you to reflect on your progress on a week-by-week basis. You will be asked to set yourself targets under the following three headings:
Leadership/ Adventure
Creative/ Cultural
Service to Others
You will also be challenged to attend at least one concert and at least one play and read at least one book for pleasure this term – and be able to have a conversation about them afterwards! Your Tutor will help you with the balance of your activities and will, at the end of the term, ask you to reflect on two key areas:
What activities have you done and what did you gain from them?
Perhaps you: •
made something beautiful or useful that didn’t exist in the world before?
•
made a new group of friends and found a common interest?
•
put yourself outside your comfort zone and achieved something you didn’t think you could do?
•
met a target that you set for yourself for your physical or emotional wellbeing and felt better for it?
•
had an idea for an activity or initiative which you got moving and others were inspired to join in?
•
have been an active bystander and stood up for someone when they needed your help?
•
stuck at something, even when it was difficult, and improved at it or completed it?
•
Or....?
05 I ART
ART Targeted extension by invitation
Vols, Electives and Academic support session
Community Action (CA): Life Drawing
For GCSE and A level NEA projects
Tuesday 5pm-6.30pm
Sixth Form only
Vols, Electives and Academic support session
Targeted extension by invitation
Thursday 5pm-6.30pm
For GCSE and A level NEA projects
Monday 5pm-6.30pm
for GCSE & A level projects
Wednesday
for GCSE & A level projects
Friday 5pm-6.30pm
Targeted extension Sunday 2pm-4pm
06 I SOCIETIES & SURGERIES
ACADEMIC SOCIETIES AND SURGERIES THE VALUE OF SOCIETIES Societies give you the opportunity to explore subjects —whether you study them or not— outside the curriculum or syllabus. You can enrich and enhance your knowledge, debate and develop awareness of broader issues, and delve deep into areas you may not have known about. Academic Societies usually meet in the evenings or late afternoons and often attract visiting speakers eminent in their field, including politicians, poets, artists and musicians. Many of the societies have become an integral part of School life, with many pupils involved in running and leading them: you have a chance to influence and play a role in their development. More societies are detailed in the Electives section a little later on.
20+ SOCIETIES Biology
Pre-University Biology Extension Group
History
Senior History Society
Biology
Junior BioSoc
History
History in Film
Chemistry
Junior Chem Soc
History
Oxbridge History
Classics
“Coffee and Classics” Society
Law
Law Society
Classics
University Classics Prep
Medicine
Medical Society
Classics
6th Form Language Support
Physics
Physics Extension (Oxbridge preparation)
Economics Alan Budd Economics Society
Psychology Junior Psychology Society
Economics Extension Economics
Psychology Senior Psychology Society
English
Clare Society
Spanish
Hispanic Society
French
Senior French Society
STEM
Sir Peter Scott Society
TPR
Senior TPR Society
Geography GeogSoc German
German Society
Weekly coaching sessions offer debating and public speaking experience to all age groups and levels of expertise, from First Form to Sixth Form, under the auspices of the Debating Society. Each year a cohort of experienced and dedicated senior debaters provide leadership and mentoring for those younger debaters who follow in their footsteps. There are many opportunities to attend and participate in debates in School. Key external competitions are the ESU Mace Debating and ESU Churchill Public Speaking, as well as the British Parliamentary debates of Oxford and Cambridge Unions. Contact Dr L MacKenzie for details.
ACADEMIC SURGERIES Academic Surgeries are the vital link between your work in class, Prep and your Private Reading time. On Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, you have the opportunity to seek individual help from teachers in each subject, giving you access to freely available specialised and knowledgeable support.
WHEN? At the same time as Electives, 5pm-7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
WHEN? Come armed with questions to ask the teacher, or an identified target topic with which you need help.
WHO’S IT FOR? Everyone. You won’t be lost in the crowd and there’ll be help for every pupil.
If there’s something you’ve not quite understood in class, or a tricky concept that you didn’t quite capture in recent work, you should use an Academic Surgery to help put things right. The sooner you do this, the better, as most subjects continue to build on previous material throughout their course.
07 I SOCIETIES & SURGERIES
DEBATING AND PUBLIC SPEAKING
08 I CHARITABLE VENTURES
CHARITABLE VENTURES WHY GET INVOLVED? Charity at Oundle is led by the pupils, supporting charities of your choosing with events and activities designed by you. It can be immensely fulfilling to reach out and support others and, with the freedom to identify charities yourself, you can do something wonderful and meaningful.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? The academic year starts with the annual Charities Fair. Each House selects a charity and designs a fundraising activity. You can support your House with the planning or support all Houses on the day with your custom. You can join in with other fundraising activities throughout the year or organise one of your own. The annual 24-hour Row and Swim are popular long-standing events, recently joined by the whole School Colour Run and charity matches in other sports. Individual enterprises have included an Oundle Cookbook and a sponsored 100km run, guess the number of sweets in the jar and cake sales. Oundelians have chosen to support local charities like The Food Bank and Mencap Holidays, as well as those further afield such as The Marafiki Trust.
WHEN AND WHERE?
Mentoring and support is available from Mrs Lowndes rll@oundleschool.org.uk
09 I DET
DESIGN, ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY THE PATRICK ENGINEERING CENTRE
TUESDAY
THURSDAY
Creative Design & Make
Furniture Making Masterclass
First to Third Form / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Fourth Form and Lower Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Retro Arcade Machines
Build A...
Third and Fourth Form / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Third Form to Lower Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Jewellery Design & Make
VEX Robotics
Third and Fourth Form / 5pm – 6pm
Third Form to Upper Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Furniture Making Masterclass
Vehicle Restoration
Fourth Form and Lower Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Fourth Form to Upper Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Build A...
Academic Support sessions
Third Form to Upper Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
for GCSE and A Level NEA projects / 5pm – 6.30pm
Vehicle Restoration
Greenpower Electric Racing Vehicle Club
Fourth Form to Upper Sixth / 5.15pm – 6.30pm
Academic Support sessions
First Form to Upper Sixth / 5pm – 6.30pm
for GCSE and A Level NEA projects / 5pm – 6.30pm
SATURDAY – Week B only
SUNDAY
Vehicle Restoration and Motor Workshops
Vehicle Restoration and Motor Workshops
4.30pm – 6.30pm
2pm – 6pm
10 I DRAMA
DRAMA ABOUT THE STAHL The Stahl exists to ignite a lifelong love of theatre. Anyone can get involved! As you might expect, we have lots of opportunities to perform. We schedule a variety of School and House productions and cast sizes are large, typically between 20-30. But we also have numerous backstage opportunities. Every one of our seven in-house productions are originally designed by one of our three theatre technicians. And you can help bring these designs to life. You can learn about lighting, sound or stage management or work with our Wardrobe Supervisor to realise her beautiful costume designs. Our in-house work sits side-by-side with a diverse programme of professional touring productions that anyone can enjoy as a member of the audience.
There are 3 School Plays per year which will be auditioned by the director. Information about auditions will be emailed to the appropriate year groups and put on the year group Team. Next year’s season includes:
It’s a Wonderful Life
3rd - U6 Form production TBC
Seussical the Musical
Directed by Mr Burlington.
Directed by Mrs Baker
Directed by Mrs Ray
Open to 3rd – U6th Form.
Open to 3rd-U6th Form
Open to 1st and 2nd Form
Auditions in September
Auditions in October
Auditions: tbc
Performs 3-5 December
Performs 4-6 March
Performs: 17-19 June
SHOW ROLES At the start of each term, pupils interested in working backstage on the production will be invited to a meeting. Here you will find out which productions are available to work on and exactly what each role entails. To find out more email Paul Laughton (Production Manager) pel@oundleschool.org.uk •
Lighting and sound operating/programming
•
Stage management
•
Hair, make-up and dressing
STAHL TECHNICAL MASTERCLASS Ever wondered what goes on backstage during a theatre show? Want to try it out without the pressure of being in a full production? Stahl Technical Masterclasses are your chance to get involved behind the scenes and discover what makes a performance come to life. Running over two sessions every half term and open to all year groups, the club lets you try out a range of backstage roles, including: •
Lighting Designer and Operator
•
Sound Designer and Operator
•
Deputy Stage Manager
•
Set Designer and Assistant Stage Manager
•
Costume Designer and Dresser
Each half term, we’ll work on a different scene from a play. In the first session, you’ll help design the technical side of the performance — planning lighting, sound, costumes, and staging. In the second session, you’ll work with actors to bring it all together in a technical rehearsal before a final run-through. If you’re creative, organised, tech-minded, or just curious about theatre, this is a great way to learn new skills, meet new people, and be part of the action at the Stahl without being on stage. No previous experience needed — just enthusiasm and a willingness to get stuck in. Speak to the Stahl Theatre team for more details.
11 I DRAMA
ACTING
12 I DRAMA
PRODUCTION WORKSHOPS
STAHL FRONT OF HOUSE
Throughout the year, as school productions require, we will
Open to all years
run practical workshops where students can help build and paint scenery, as well as design and create props.
7.10pm - 10pm (approx. Depending on show running time) on show nights.
These workshops are a great opportunity to develop creative,
To join our Front of House team email
artistic, and technical theatre skills while contributing
dfitzsimmons@oundleschool.org.uk
directly to our school productions.
Meet and greet members of the
Details of upcoming workshops and information on how to
audience. Check tickets and be the
sign up will be sent via email when sessions are scheduled.
smiling happy face of the Stahl!
THE WRITERS’ ROOM - PLAYWRITING ELECTIVE
WATCH PLAYS
Open to all years / Tuesday 5.15pm - 6.45pm
As well as the School and
For more information email ajr@oundleschool.org.uk Over 8 weeks, you’ll create your own script from scratch- with plenty of support along the way! Selected scripts will be entered into the Royal Court Young Writers Programme and could be performed at the Stahl as part of the Hepburn Festival in March.
House productions staged at the Stahl external professional theatre companies regularly perform here too. You can get tickets online, in person from the box office or via your Theatre Rep in House!
13 I DUKE OF EDINBURGH
DUKE OF EDINBURGH (DofE) BRONZE WHAT IS IT? The DofE Award Scheme is an award set up by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, 65 years ago. There are 3 levels to the Award – Bronze, Silver and Gold. As a Third former, you are eligible to enrol for the Bronze level. Each level involves 4 sections (5 sections for Gold): Physical, Skill, Volunteering, Expedition. By undertaking the Bronze Award, you have the opportunity to: •
A good way to be inspired to try new things and to be challenged
•
A chance for you to be rewarded/recognised for co-curricular activities you are involved in
•
A good way for you to get involved with helping out in the local community
•
Helps to develop independence, confidence, self-awareness, and life-long skills
•
A chance to have fun, work as part of a team with your friends/peers
Section
Activity
Min number of hours
Min time span
Physical
Get involved in a physical activity (sport) – eg hockey
30 hours
6 months
Skill
Learn and develop in a skill - eg playing a musical instrument, or a non-sporting Oundle School elective activity
15 hours
3 months
Volunteering
Get involved in a Volunteering activity – eg helping out with a local Cub/Brownie group
15 hours
3 months
Expedition
Complete a 2 day assessed walking expedition, camping out overnight, following a training expedition and skills sessions
6 hours walking per day
2 days, 1 night
SILVER You can start Silver Award in the Fifth Form. It will take you at least 6 months if you’ve already achieved your Bronze, or 12 months if you’ve jumped straight into Silver. •
Volunteering section: 6 months
•
Physical and Skills sections: One section for 6 months and the other section for 3 months
•
Expedition section: 3 days/2 nights
If you didn’t do Bronze, you must undertake a further 6 months in either the Volunteering or the longer of the Physical or Skills sections.
14 I DUKE OF EDINBURGH
GOLD For Gold, you’ll need to do your programme for at least 12 months if you’ve achieved your Silver Award, or 18 months if you’ve started at Gold level without doing your Silver – even if you’ve done Bronze. The big difference at Gold is you’ll also do a Residential section – staying away
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS? You will need to: •
decide what activities you are going to do for each section and then sign up by submitting a programme planner detailing these
•
attend weekly sessions on Wednesdays between 5pm and 7pm
•
ensure you engage with each of your activities fully and proactively
•
keep a log of your activities and submit this as evidence along with a report from your activity supervisor.
from home for five days and four nights doing a shared activity with people you don’t know. Achieving your Gold Award is a big deal. It shows that you have the skills, determination and mentality to really succeed. So, it’s only right you get a proper celebration of your achievement. All young people who achieve a Gold Award will be invited to a Gold Award Celebration Event, attended by a Member of The Royal Family, to receive their certificate. • •
Volunteering section: 12 months Physical and Skills sections: One section for 12 months and the other section for 6 months
•
Expedition section: 4 days/3 nights
•
Residential section: Undertake a shared activity in a residential setting away from home for 5 days
6 months in either the Volunteering or the longer of
“When you prove to yourself that you’re ready for anything, nothing can hold you back.”
the Physical or Skills sections.
DofE website
and 4 nights.
If you didn’t do Silver, you must undertake a further
(from Latin eligere – to choose!) Electives are activities that you choose for yourself, and we encourage and challenge you to make the very most of them. They are: •
Encouraged for the 1st/2nd Form – talk to your Tutor about what best fits your programme
•
Strongly recommended for the 3rd/4th Form – your Tutor will monitor and encourage your progress. If you are heavily involved in other Co-curricular areas (e.g. music, drama or sport) then they might excuse you from doing an Elective
•
An opportunity for pupil leadership in the Sixth Form - under the guidance of a member of staff.
Electives generally happen in Vols time on a Tuesday and Thursday afternoon between 5.15pm and 6.45pm. Academic Surgeries are also available in Vols time for when you need help with a particular subject. You should take the initiative on when to use these with the help of your Tutor.
WHAT IS AVAILABLE? Some examples of electives are provided above to give you a flavour. You will receive instructions about how to sign up for things that are available to your year group at various points during the year so keep an eye on email and Teams. If you discover a passion and want to keep going back to a specialist area, for example the Patrick Engineering Centre, the Stahl Theatre, the Art department, Sport or the Music department, you can do this by arrangement with staff provided your Tutor is happy and provided this doesn’t come at the expense of you doing other things you would enjoy being part of.
HOW DO ELECTIVES WORK? Each rotation of Electives lasts for a Term. Once committed to an activity you will be expected to complete the course and attendance will be registered. You may also wish to pursue a personal project with your Tutor’s approval, whether that be taking time to pursue your own hobbies and interests individually or coming up with a group venture. Further ideas include: •
Are you making, or writing, something, or keen to pursue an online course?
•
Do you and your friends want to put on a performance of some kind and need the rehearsal time?
•
If you love to read, then why not challenge yourself to write a series of book reviews and present these to your Tutor or the Library?
•
If you are musical and really need some quality time to yourself to practise, then this is your time and you can make use of it and update your Tutor on your progress.
15 I ELECTIVES
ELECTIVES
16 I ELECTIVES
PUPIL-LED ELECTIVES Pupils in the Sixth Form upwards are encouraged to consider running an Elective. This is a fantastic way to share an interest with younger pupils whilst developing leadership and organisation skills. Recent examples have included Birdwatching, Criminology and Junior Photography. All pupil-led Electives must be sponsored by a teacher who should be available to help when needed but does not need to supervise every session. If you have an idea then please contact Miss Byatt to discuss it in further detail.
17 I ELECTIVES
CREATIVE ELECTIVES Art
Portraiture
Including pupil-led masterclasses (e.g.
Learn the art of Portrait Painting.
printmaking, animation, painting), Architecture and visiting Artists Master Class
Practical Architecture Practical problem solving and making
Baking
sessions. You will be working as a team to
Learn how to make lots of delicious things.
design and build working models based on some of the world’s most famous buildings
Bookmaking
and structures.
Create marvellous hand-made mini books.
Robots Ceramics
Build a raspberry Pi powered robot from a
Make and paint with coloured glazes,
kit and programme it to work using Python.
geometric mandala tiles.
Experience of using Python is preferable.
Costume Design
Sewing
Help in the design of and creation of costumes
Make basic items such as pencil cases, cushion
for School and House productions at the Stahl.
covers etc.
Creative Crafts
Vehicle Vols
Explore your creativity through hand-made
Classic and Modern vehicle restoration
craft activities.
Videography Club Dave and Reb’s Design and Make
Develop and hone your skills through a series
Hone your skills through a series of practical
of specific video projects.
projects in the Patrick Engineering Centre Workshop.
Dungeons & Dragons Club This is a tabletop roleplaying game in which you and a group of five other players create a story together. It is part storytelling, part strategy – no experience is necessary.
Greenpower Work as a team to build a one-person electric vehicle and compete in the international Greenpower competition.
Open Design and Make Session These sessions are for pupils who have a personal project in mind that they would like to make outside of lessons using the facilities and expertise in the Patrick Engineering Centre.
18 I ELECTIVES
CULTURAL ELECTIVES Birdwatching
Music Ensembles
Walk to Barnwell Country Park and learn how
There are a variety of Music electives, including
to identify birds.
OSJOs, Chamber Orchestra, Music Practice and Music Theory.
Chamber Music and other Ensembles Open to players of any level who would like to
Quiz Club
play in a small group.
Test yourself on the weird, the wonderful and the exceptionally wacky to win points against
Cheese Appreciation
the clock. Remember that points mean prizes!
Taste and learn about cheese in all of its glorious forms.
Sing-a-long Gather around the piano for a sing-a-long.
Chess Online Gather together for online matches,
Stahl Backstage
tournaments and training.
Drop in to the Stahl Theatre and get involved in aspects of theatre production, including
Classic Film
set & prop construction, stage management,
Watch films over a series of weeks, with post
lighting & sound.
film discussion groups.
Yarrow Gallery Concerts
Visit the exhibitions in the Yarrow and develop
Set yourself a target to go to a certain
your knowledge and understanding of art.
number of concerts per term. Read up on the
Maybe even use this to inspire your own
composers and form your own views about
artwork.
what music you like.
Drama Go along to the Stahl to see House, School or professional productions – or audition for a play yourself.
19 I ELECTIVES
INTELLECTUAL ELECTIVES Bridge Society
Hispanic Society
Microdebating
Creative Writing
History Workshop
Model United Nations
Cribbage
Junior Biology Society
Parliamentary Debating
Current Affairs
Junior Chemistry Club
Public Speaking
Dissection
Junior Debating Training
Strategic Card School
Economics Discussion Society
Junior Maths Club
Touch Typing Course
Junior MedSoc (pupil-led)
UK Linguistics Olympiad
French Society German Society
Junior Psychology Society MAT Prep
Heraldry
PHYSICAL ELECTIVES Ballet Intermediate
Fives
Netball
Basketball
Football
RYA Yacht Navigation
Climbing
Junior Girls’ Rugby
Small Bore Rifle
Cricket
Junior Squash
Tennis
Dedicated Athlete Programme
Kayaking
20 I ELECTIVES
SPIRITUALITY AND SERVICE AN INTRODUCTION TO MEDITATION
MINDFULNESS
YOGA
This involves breathing
Learn how to improve
Learn how to relax your
methods, guided imagery
strength, balance and
body, quiet your mind and
and other practices to relax
flexibility, in turn enhancing
awaken your spirit.
the body and mind, helping
energy, helping manage
reduce stress.
stress and improving sleep.
21 I MUSIC
MUSIC Music at Oundle operates on three levels: individual music lessons; ensembles; academic. ‘Music for all’ is a fundamental principle and we presently deliver around 950 music lessons every week. We aim to cater for any possible instrument you might wish to learn, every ability and all tastes in music, be it jazz, rock, musical theatre or Baroque. The Gascoigne is stacked with resources, and houses over 30 teaching and practice rooms, as well as a separate recital room, technology studio, radio station and library. Every Boarding House has 2 pianos and a music room for you to use. With 8 full-time teachers (all acting as Tutors in the Houses) and around 42 Visiting Music Teachers, we have the resources to inspire you.
WHY GET INVOLVED? Participation in instrumental and choral forces is fun, if hard work! Ensembles inspire teamwork and confidence, and offer insight into excellence. Above all, they yield the greatest chance for rapid progress as you develop and stretch your skillset alongside other skilled musicians and friends. Many ensembles cut across year group, house and gender, thus they also offer camaraderie across the entire school.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? You can learn any instrument you wish (including the lesser known such as bagpipes, harpsichord, accordion and music production). We will find appropriate ensembles for you (we run over 42) – from Marching Band to Rock Bands, via Quartets to Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Bands to Musical Theatre Choirs, traditional to modern – you name it, we do it!
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF ME? The best music-making comes from a partnership: always tell us what you would like to learn and participate in and we will try to make this possible. Above all, improvement offers fulfilment (perhaps the greatest source of fun)! So, commit to a realistic amount of time each week to practise, and commit to the ensemble you are given to work with.
DID YOU KNOW...? Every year of late, around
10 pupils
attain Music Diplomas.
Pupils annually
gain places
in National ensembles.
Previously pupils have been signed by a
record label.
22 I OSCAR RADIO
OSCAR RADIO Oscar Radio is the foremost pupil-run radio station in the UK and has been running since 1998. Typically, there are two broadcast seasons over the year, with pupils trusted to manage both programming and the shows. Supported by Mr Gardiner, Managing Directors lead on the programming while Technicians and Presenters take responsibility for individual shows.
WHY GET INVOLVED? Oscar Radio is a truly pupil led activity that can be tailored to your specific area of interest. In the last few years Directors have developed a new website, a new logo, a new Oscar News feature and new artwork. Involvement in Oscar Radio as a Director also looks great on a UCAS application! As a host you can design a show that showcases your knowledge or area of interest be it drumming, quiz shows or debates!
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? Oscar Directors
Technicians and Show Hosts
Roles include Managing Director,
If you do not have time to be an
Technical Director, Scheduling
Oscar Director, you can design
Director, News Director, Media
and host your own show and
Director and Music Director.
be trained in the use of the
Oscar Directors design and plan
equipment and be the
broadcast seasons and then
technician who operates the
oversee all the shows broadcast
mixing desk and Myriad
on Oscar Radio ensuring they
software during shows.
meet broadcast standards.
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF ME? To be creative, think big, take responsibility for your role whilst developing your communication and team working skills.
There are lots of things that you can do which fall into this category. Look out for Open House at the Chaplaincy, Confirmation (Anglican and Roman Catholic), and Electives, which offer opportunities to nurture your own physical and emotional wellbeing and to help others. Remember that one of the most powerful ways you can elect to serve your community, or live a spiritual life, is to think about the feelings of others. Focus on doing at least one extra act of kindness every day: •
The act may be large or small and the recipient may not even be aware of it.
•
It could be a compliment, a helping hand, or something else.
•
It may be being an active bystander when others are getting it wrong and need reminding of our community values.
•
Do at least one extra kind act each day for a week, ideally a different one each day, and make a list to review either on your own or with someone else.
•
Ideally your acts of kindness should be beyond the kind things you already do on a regular basis.
•
A smile costs nothing but can brighten someone else’s day more than you will ever know.
23 I SPIRITUALITY & SERVICE
SPIRITUALITY AND SERVICE
24 I SPORT
SPORT Oundle has some of the best sports facilities of any school in the country and, whatever your
1 2
sporting level and ambition, you have the opportunity to get involved in a motivating and inspiring sporting programme which:
provides a wide selection of team and individual sporting options, offering opportunities to all.
ensures excellence at the top competitive level and stretches the most talented.
WHY GET INVOLVED? Sport is part and parcel of daily life at Oundle where we strive for every pupil to participate and to leave School with a positive experience of sport, developing a lifelong interest and lasting enjoyment in a sporting activity that will foster good habits long into adulthood. Our ambition is to nurture a sporting culture where all have fun, strive industriously and all excel at whatever level they aspire to. We encourage individuals to pursue their own sporting interests alongside representing the School in mainstream competition, where all pupils are challenged to reach their potential. We aim to develop confident and creative sports players who enjoy participation and competition.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? Oundelians play sport at least three times a week, and there is scope to do much more. In First, Second and Third Form, we guide pupils to particular team sports. Then, as you progress through the school, the choice becomes wider and includes: athletics, cricket, rowing, rugby, football, tennis, cross country, fives, golf, hockey, cycling, swimming, netball, squash, badminton, sailing, dance, shooting, water polo, basketball, gym work, kayaking and climbing.
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF ME? All we ask of you is that you are engaged, open to new experiences and make the most of your ability with an aspiration to fulfil your sporting potential.
‘Fail. Learn. Win.’ is the British Army’s recruitment slogan. It applies well to the CCF. We don’t expect perfection. We do expect that you strive to do better and seek to have the humility and self-discipline to learn.
ABOUT THE COMBINED CADET FORCE (CCF) Our Cadet Force is one of the largest in the country, with around 435 cadets parading on a weekly basis. Participating in CCF develops leadership skills, teamwork, self-reliance and a sense of service; for some pupils, it will introduce them to a career in the military. The CCF comprises five Sections: the Royal Navy (RN), the Army, the Royal Air Force (RAF), Adventure Training, Fire and Rescue, in addition to the Marching Band. It is compulsory for all pupils in the Fourth Form, who must join one of the RN, Army or RAF Sections. Each Section gives different opportunities. The RN Section specialises in rowing, sailing and power boating, the Army Section in infantry skills and tactics, and the RAF Section in flight training.
WHY GET INVOLVED? CCF offers something for everyone. It is fun, challenging and rewarding. For 4th Form cadets it provides a constructive and enjoyable change of scene to the classroom. For senior cadets it provides leadership training and opportunities that can set you apart in your future careers. All cadets undertake two Field Weekends per year and have the chance to go on an Annual camp in the Summer holidays too. During this time they gain qualifications as well as developing leadership and teamwork skills.
WHEN AND WHERE? Wednesday afternoons (Fourth Form and above)
25 I COMBINED CADET FORCE
COMBINED CADET FORCE (CCF)
26 I COMBINED CADET FORCE
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? At the end of their Fourth Form, cadets decide whether to explore other aspects of co-curricular programme or remain in the CCF. If they choose the latter, they can remain in their Service Section to complete NCO and leadership training or join one of the specialist training Sections (Fire and Rescue or Adventure Training). In addition to a small-bore facility, the School has its own shooting range, Elmington Range. At 500 yards long, it is one of just a few of its size in the country to be owned by a school. Rifle practice takes place at firing points at either 100, 200, 300 or 500 yards. Oundle runs additional camps including: •
Annual summer camp
•
Alpine skiing development, Switzerland
•
Annual Adventurous Training, Wales or Scotland
•
Annual Target Shooting, Bisley
•
Cadet Cambrian Patrol
The Community Action (CA) programme aims to cultivate a spirit of service to others within our local communities. The Community Action programme provides a wide variety of opportunities for pupils to support both the local and wider community throughout the week.
WHY GET INVOLVED? The diversity of CA activities and initiatives provides Oundelians with opportunities not only to widen their perspectives but to develop personally. The activities on offer are designed primarily to be of service to others, ranging from the youngest to the oldest in our community and all with a variety of particular needs. Whilst we work hard to ensure those we host and support enjoy and benefit from the many activities on offer, our pupils will also develop much valued soft skills alongside those important traits of empathy and kindness with the aim of nurturing our pupils as true global contributors of the future.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? •
660 Club
•
Coaching Junior Sport
•
Barnwell Country Park maintenance
•
Green Team
•
Berrystead supervision
•
•
Brownies, Scouts and Cubs
‘Have a Go Days’ for local residents of all ages with special needs
•
Conservation Club
•
•
Community Art
PHAB Club (supporting local residents with special needs)
•
Community Crafts
•
Reading mentors
•
Primary Schools (After School Clubs & Academic mentoring)
•
Special Needs Sport and School visits
•
Visiting local elderly residents in their homes
•
Flymo Squad (gardening to support local residents)
•
Stahl Backstage, Wardrobe and Front of House
•
Oundle Chronicle
•
•
Oxfam and Air Ambulance
Nurseries – supporting the youngest members of our community
•
Residential homes
•
Secondary Schools academic support
•
School Archive
•
Kettering General Hospital
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF ME? Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and contributions. With such a broad range of options, it is hoped that each pupil will find an activity where their contribution is both impactful and rewarding in equal measure.
WHEN AND WHERE? Quite simply, seven days a week in term time! A main slot is Wednesday afternoons but there are opportunities all week long.
27 I COMMUNITY ACTION
COMMUNITY ACTION (CA)
28 I WEDNESDAY ACTIVITIES
OTHER WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES
ART LIFE CLASS
BEEKEEPING
Sixth Formers studying Art can
Oundle has several bee hives and pupils are fully
take Life Classes with teacher
involved in every aspect of beekeeping, from learning
support, developing their skills in
about, and caring for, the bees to selling honey. For
representing the human body.
a surprising number of Oundle beekeepers, their experience of beekeeping at School leads them to keep bees in later life.
JOURNALISM: THE OUNDELIAN AND OUNDLE CHRONICLE
MUSIC
Pupils have the opportunity to
into practice time, CCF Band (for some), performance
be editors, writers, directors and
opportunities, ensembles and Alexander Technique
artistic contributors on two excellent
time; it is also a useful time to fit in an instrumental
publications. The Oundelian is the
lesson if possible. All will be a part of the School’s Music
School blog, published on the School
Outreach Programme at some point during the year
website, while Oundle Chronicle is a
visiting Residential Homes/Special Schools, and all
newspaper published twice a year and
will be a part of the two Field Weekends that include
distributed to the local community.
diverse and stimulating activities.
Pupils learning two or more instruments and at a Grade 8 level may opt for Music. The afternoon is divided
29 I WEDNESDAY ACTIVITIES
PERFORMANCE SPORTS SESSIONS
OUNDLE GREEN TEAM
Bespoke sessions provide selected pupils with
Part of our broader commitment to our
the opportunity to:
pupils is to ensure that they recognise their
•
Train using individualised Strength & Conditioning programmes
•
Enjoy individual or small group sportsspecific coaching sessions, working on improving skill levels
•
Expand their skill set by involvement in dedicated outreach activities and
responsibility to be committed to the world beyond the School. With the support of staff, pupils are encouraged to get involved with environmental leadership through several channels, including The Green Team: a self-selecting group of environmentally minded pupils.
coaching sessions.
PHOTOGRAPHY
TYCOON ENTERPRISE CHALLENGE
Led by the School’s professional photographer,
This channels Lower Sixth pupils’ ‘inner
pupils in the Photography Club take photos
entrepreneur/innovator’, taking them through
of various events in the spirit of being a
the key steps required to turn their ideas into
service to the School, whilst also enjoying the
actions. Over a course of a year, they develop
opportunity to enhance their photography
a full business plan and accompanying pitch
skills and creativity for their own portfolios,
presentation. The next time they have a business,
photo exhibitions, and to be selected for the
technical, social, political, charitable (etc)
School’s intranet ‘Photo of the Week’.
innovation, they will know exactly what to do.
30 I OUNDLE OPPORTUNITIES
31 I OUNDLE OPPORTUNITIES
An Opportunity for Everyone The opportunities in this booklet are open to every Oundelian. Some will help you develop existing interests. Others will encourage you to try something completely new. You do not need experience. You do not need to be the best. You simply need the willingness to take part.
Give it a go. What will you do?
Firmly Grounded Endlessly Curious
Oundle School, The Great Hall, New Street, Oundle PE8 4GH T: 01832 273434 E: info@oundleschool.org.uk
www.oundleschool.org.uk