Co-curricular Programme
e m o c Wel Your Daughter's Co-curricular Journey At St Helen’s our aim is to provide co-curricular opportunities that enhance the lives, personal development and wellbeing of all our pupils. With our wide-ranging co-curricular programme, we ignite new and existing passions as well as uncovering hidden talents and passions, so in her time with us, a St Helen’s girl develops lifelong skills and pursues her passions with confidence. Our co-curricular programme is rooted in our four core pillars:
Grow with Resilience Create with Courage Lead with Integrity Connect with Kindness We know that by encouraging our pupils to engage in activities that develop resilience, courage, integrity and kindness, we are better preparing them to adapt to many of the challenges they will meet as they progress through school and beyond. Our fun and engaging co-curricular programme offers something for everyone, from sport, STEM and the arts to leadership, volunteering and academic enrichment. There are countless opportunities for our pupils to participate. One of the unusual features of our co-curricular offering that I particularly enjoy is that pupils are encouraged to initiate and lead their own clubs which fosters fantastic ownership and creates leadership opportunities within our community. We have a rich blend of clubs, some student-led, some teacher-led and some that are delivered by specialist external providers. This guide provides you with an insight into our inspiring and varied co-curricular offering which is designed to enrich, expand and challenge our pupils throughout their time with us. I hope you enjoy it. Miss Payne Senior Deputy Head, Academic and Co-curricular
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Contents Resilience
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Courage
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Integrity
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Kindness
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Societies
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Drama
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Sport
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Music
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"Joining Drama helped me become much more confident. It's given me the courage to speak up and believe in myself."
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h t i w w o Gr
e c n e i l i s Re Through academic challenge, problem-solving and sport, pupils are encouraged to stretch themselves beyond the curriculum, take on unfamiliar challenges and develop perseverance, confidence and the ability to respond positively when things are difficult.
Chess Club
Maths Talking Point
Sharpen strategic thinking, concentration and
Discuss complex mathematical ideas, develop
decision-making through friendly competition,
deeper understanding and explore mathematics
challenges and puzzles. Pupils can take part in our
beyond the classroom. Pupils will tackle
weekly social chess club, open to all abilities, or
challenging problems, investigate unfamiliar
develop their skills further through our paid chess
concepts, make connections across different areas
club, with expert coaching and support from a
of mathematics and develop the confidence to
Chess Grandmaster.
think creatively and independently.
CREST
A* Chemistry Club
Develop investigative and research skills by
Take learning to the next level in Chemistry
undertaking exciting science, technology and
through advanced academic exploration and
engineering projects. Project ideas include which
intellectual challenge. We will look at complex
crisps are the crispiest? Which toothpaste is the
questions and strategies to break down problems.
most effective? What makes a good bath bomb?
This will help prepare you for the Chemistry
How can we detect fraud using chromatography?
Olympiad and Cambridge Chemistry Challenge.
What is machine learning? Or choose your own project based on an idea that you would like to
Physics Olympiads
research.
Challenge yourself with demanding physics problems and prepare for prestigious competitions. Do you enjoy solving tricky problems? Discussing new ideas? Applying your maths and physics skills? In this club we’ll tackle problems to train for the British Physics Olympiads.
"The opportunities available are remarkable. Our daughter has developed confidence, independence and skills that will benefit her long after school." 03
French debating club The French Debating Club develops public speaking, critical thinking and argumentation skills entirely in French. Students build confidence while discussing engaging current topics such as the environment, immigration, politics, culture, technological and scientific progress, and the Francophone world. They have the opportunity to compete in the Joutes Oratoires at St Paul’s Girls’ School, a prestigious French debating competition bringing together hundreds of sixth-form students from schools across London and beyond.
Mind-Bending Maths Club
University Challenge
Mind-Bending Maths Club is designed for students
Put your knowledge to the test in our University
who enjoy tackling challenging problems and
Challenge Club, open to students in Years 10–13.
exploring mathematics beyond the classroom
Develop specialist areas of expertise, broaden
curriculum. Using a range of engaging enrichment
your general knowledge and tackle two carefully
activities and UK Mathematics Trust (UKMT)
chosen books each half term — one fiction and
questions, students will develop their problem-
one non-fiction — in preparation for fast-paced
solving, logical reasoning, and mathematical
competitive quizzes. You’ll also have the chance to
thinking skills in a supportive and stimulating
help organise House and inter-school
environment. The club encourages students to
competitions, representing your team and taking
approach maths creatively, persevere with
on some of the sharpest minds around.
complex challenges, and deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts while
Literature in Context
building confidence and resilience. Whether preparing for competitions or simply enjoying the
Literature in Context is a great opportunity for
challenge of advanced mathematical puzzles,
pupils to explore authors of interest and the kind of
students will have the opportunity to stretch their
social and historical context they were working in.
academic potential and discover the fascinating
Pupils are encouraged to develop their literary
side of mathematics.
passions and to discover new writers who write about their worlds in powerful ways. The skills of
WOW Club
critical thinking, initiative and curiosity are all used when participating in this club.
WOW club is an exciting, hands-on science experiment club designed to inspire Year 7 students to question, investigate and explore the world around them. Through fun and engaging experiments, students will develop not only their scientific skills, but also the values that make great scientists.
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th i w e t a e Cr
e g a r Cou At St Helen’s, creativity comes alive when pupils are given the freedom to experiment, explore new ideas, express themselves boldly and have the confidence to take imaginative risks.
VEX Robotics
Rocket Science Club
Discover the exciting world of robotics by
Launch your curiosity as you explore the principles
designing, building and programming robots for
of space, flight and engineering. Enter the
competition. Develop engineering expertise,
European Space Agency’s CanSat competition.
computational thinking, creativity and teamwork
Throughout the year we will design and build a
skills while solving complex challenges and
satellite module in preparation for launch in March.
pushing the boundaries of innovation. Through
You will develop you electronics, CAD, sewing,
hands-on challenges and competitions, you'll gain
project management and leadership skills and
practical experience in robotics, preparing you for
have a stellar time!
future opportunities.
Art After Hours LAMDA
Explore a range of artistic techniques and media in
Develop communication, performance and public-
a relaxed setting, developing creativity, confidence and individual expression. Pupils can experiment
speaking skills through practical workshops and
with different materials, refine practical skills and
preparation for graded LAMDA examinations.
develop their own ideas through both guided
Pupils work towards recognised qualifications while
activities and independent work.
building confidence, vocal technique, interpretation and presentation skills that support both
Inklings
performance and wider communication.
Creativity, imagination, fantasy! Inklings is a multidisciplinary creative club for all ages focused on world-building and developing fantasy art and literature, named after the Inklings group at Oxford run by famous fantasy writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
“VEX Robotics showed me that engineering can be creative. I love building solutions with my team and seeing our ideas come to life." 05
Ocarina Club
Jewellery Making Club
Discover the enjoyment of learning a new instrument
Design and create unique pieces of jewellery while
in a relaxed group setting. Pupils develop rhythm,
developing creativity, concentration and fine motor
musicality and coordination as they learn to play a
skills. Pupils can experiment with colour, pattern
range of pieces, building confidence in both individual
and different materials, taking pride in producing
and ensemble performance.
something of their own to wear or take home.
Art Attack
Candice Conway Music Theatre
Get hands-on with a wide range of exciting art
Sing, dance and perform in an energetic and
projects designed to spark imagination and
supportive environment led by specialist
creativity. Pupils can experiment with different
practitioners. Pupils develop confidence, stage
materials and techniques, develop their own
presence and performance skills while learning
ideas and enjoy creating work in a fun and
songs, routines and scenes and experiencing
supportive environment.
the excitement of musical theatre.
Create Club
Chinese Arts & Culture Club
Organised by the Design & Technology
Explore Chinese arts and culture through a varied
Department, Create Club gives pupils the
programme of creative activities, including
opportunity to explore a range of practical and
calligraphy, traditional painting, crafts and festival-
creative projects. Through designing, making and
themed projects. Each session offers something
experimenting with different materials, pupils
different, giving pupils the opportunity to develop
develop confidence, independence and the ability
practical skills while learning more about Chinese
to turn their own ideas into finished outcomes.
traditions and culture in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
Engineering & Tech Club Drama Clubs, such as the 1 O'Clock Club
Explore the world of engineering and technology through practical challenges, problem-solving and
Develop confidence, creativity and performance skills
hands-on projects. Pupils will design, build, test and
through acting, storytelling and collaborative work.
improve their ideas, developing creativity, logical
Pupils explore character, voice and movement while
thinking and an understanding of how things work.
creating and performing work with others.
Manga Club
Santa's Little Helpers
Celebrate the art of manga through drawing,
Design, create and collaborate as part of a team to
storytelling and sharing creative ideas.
produce festive products for the Christmas Fayre. Using sketching, CAD, 3D printing, laser cutting and workshop tools, pupils bring ideas to life while raising money for charity.
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h Lead wit
y t i r g e t n I
Leadership at St Helen’s is about taking responsibility, contributing to the community and using your skills and voice to make a positive difference. Through a range of activities, pupils have opportunities to lead, collaborate, make decisions and take responsibility for themselves and others.
Model United Nations (MUN)
The Linkway & Weekly Bulletin
Step into the role of an international delegate and
Play an active role in telling the stories of the St
debate some of the key issues facing the world
Helen’s community. Pupils can write articles,
today. Pupils develop skills in research, diplomacy,
conduct interviews, report on school events and
negotiation and public speaking as they represent
develop content for our publications, building their
different countries, respond to opposing viewpoints
communication skills while having a genuine voice
and work towards shared resolutions.
in school life.
GAIN Investment Challenge
Young Enterprise
Explore the world of investment and finance
Experience what it takes to develop and run a
through research, analysis and strategic decision-
business. Pupils work together to generate ideas,
making. Working collaboratively, pupils consider
develop products, manage finances, market their
companies and markets, build their understanding
business and make real decisions, gaining
of investment and develop the confidence to justify
practical experience of entrepreneurship,
and present their decisions. Along the way pupils
teamwork and leadership. Throughout the year,
are aided with mentors from the world of finance,
pupils have chances to put their team and
to help consolidate and deepen knowledge about
business into the real world, participating in trade
their chosen investment.
fairs and selling their finished product, building confidence in public speaking and showing off their team skills.
“I love trying new things every day. My favourite part is making things with my friends and showing them what I've created."
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Debating Develop critical thinking, confidence and the ability to communicate ideas persuasively. Pupils take part in debates, public speaking events and prestigious competitions, tackling contemporary issues while refining their reasoning and presentation skills. St Helen’s teams regularly achieve success at regional and national level through competitions including the International Competition for Young Debaters, the English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition, the
Combined Cadet Force (CCF)
UCL Winter Cup, the ESU Mace, and the Oxford and Cambridge Schools’ Debating Competitions.
Develop leadership, teamwork, responsibility and resilience through a programme of practical and adventurous activities. Cadets take part in regular training at Merchant Taylors’, where they learn new skills, work as part of a wider cadet community and take on increasing levels of responsibility through practical challenges and adventurous opportunities beyond the classroom. Over a cadet’s potential 4 years with their section they will develop from
“Completing the expedition was challenging, but working as a team and supporting each other made it one of the most rewarding experiences I've had at school.”
being part of a team to deciding what those younger teams do whether that be in the lessons they learn, the practical team-building tasks that they do, the way they perform drill or their
Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE)
manoeuvres in the field. When choosing CCF,
Work towards a nationally recognised award
pupils will also choose whether to be part of the
through volunteering, physical activity, developing
Royal Navy, Army or Royal Air Force sections.
a skill and completing an expedition. The DofE
Each offers the same development but each differs
encourages pupils to take responsibility for their
in the approach and the opportunities, with RN
own progress, contribute to their community and
cadets having the opportunity to regularly partake
develop independence, teamwork and resilience
in water-based activities, RAF cadets learn the
through sustained commitment and challenge.
essentials of flying and get to put that into practice with flying opportunities and Field Craft and weapons handling developed by those in the Army section. There are also regular opportunities for all three sections to come together in camps and other ceremonial visits.
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ith w t c e n Con
s s e n d n i K At St Helen’s, we foster empathy, curiosity and a strong sense of community so that pupils learn to understand different perspectives, build meaningful relationships and recognise the value of contributing to something beyond themselves.
Gardening Club
Book Chat Club
Discover the enjoyment of growing, creating and
Come together over a love of reading. Share
caring for the world around you. Pupils work
favourite books, discover new authors and hear
together to cultivate plants, learn more about
different perspectives as you discuss characters,
nature and contribute to shared spaces, while
ideas and stories with others in a friendly and
enjoying the calming and wellbeing benefits of
welcoming environment.
spending time outdoors.
Outreach and Volunteering
Cosy Club
Make a positive impact in the local community
Take some time out of the busy school day to
through volunteering and outreach projects.
relax, create and connect with others. Enjoy
Working with younger children in local schools,
mindful arts and crafts, outdoor activities, cookie
pupils support activities such as reading, STEM,
decorating, friendship-bracelet making, nature
sport, languages, music and the arts while
walks and plenty of opportunities to make new
developing valuable leadership, communication
friends and boost your wellbeing.
and teamwork skills. The club encourages empathy, responsibility and confidence, helping pupils become positive role models and make a
Loko Cheer
meaningful difference to others.
Build confidence, coordination and teamwork through energetic and inclusive cheerleading activities. Pupils learn routines together, encourage one another and experience the excitement of working as a team towards a shared goal.
"Gardening Club helped me learn about nature, but it's also a great place to relax and spend time with friends."
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Talk German Build confidence in speaking German through conversation, games and interactive activities. Along the way, discover more about Germanspeaking countries and cultures, broaden your understanding of others and enjoy communicating together in a supportive environment.
Christian Union Club
Classics Club
A welcoming space to explore Christian faith, ask
Discover the myths, people, cultures and
questions and reflect on ideas about life, values
achievements of the ancient world. Through
and community. Pupils can share perspectives,
stories, activities and discussion, pupils explore
listen to others and enjoy a sense of fellowship in
how people lived and connected in the past while
an inclusive and supportive environment.
uncovering the surprising ways ancient societies continue to influence our world today.
Geography Club
STEM Club
Explore the extraordinary diversity of people,
Explore science, technology, engineering and
Investigate global challenges, discover different
maths through exciting hands-on challenges.
cultures and communities and consider how our
Pupils investigate, build and solve problems
choices and actions connect us to people and
together, learning to share ideas, listen to one
places far beyond our own.
places and environments around the world.
another and discover how collaboration can help turn curiosity into solutions.
Board Games Club
Ghibli Film Club
Take a break from the school day and connect with
Experience the imaginative worlds of Studio Ghibli
favourites, discover new games and develop
and explore powerful stories about friendship,
strategy, teamwork and problem-solving skills
family, identity, nature and belonging. Watch and
while learning to communicate, cooperate and
discuss films together, share different
celebrate one another’s successes. Whether you
interpretations and discover how storytelling can
are an expert or a complete beginner, everyone is
help us understand experiences beyond our own.
welcome.
others through friendly competition. Play classic
Ancient Games
Wellbeing and Mindfulness
Step into the world of the Greeks and Romans
Develop positive habits that support both your own
through the games, challenges and pastimes they
wellbeing and your relationships with others.
enjoyed. Play together, learn about ancient life and
Through reflection, relaxation and mindful
discover how shared activities brought
activities, pupils learn to recognise emotions,
communities together.
practise gratitude and develop strategies for approaching themselves and others with greater care and understanding.
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s e i t e Soci Our societies bring together curious minds to explore ideas beyond the curriculum, lead discussions, share interests and deepen subject knowledge. Many are student-led, giving pupils the opportunity to shape activities, introduce new ideas and learn from one another.
Economics Society
Psychology Society
Discover the forces shaping the world around you,
Discover what makes us think, feel and behave the
from inflation and global trade to business,
way we do. Pupils explore topics such as memory,
investment and personal finance. Through lively
relationships, personality and decision-making, linking
discussion, debate and real-world case studies,
psychological research to everyday life. Through
pupils connect economic theory to everyday
discussion, experiments and real-world examples,
decisions made by governments, businesses and
Psychology Society offers a fascinating insight into
individuals. Take on the challenge of being
human behaviour and the world around us.
Chancellor, presenting your own ideas on spending and taxation while developing
Medical Society
confidence, curiosity and a deeper understanding
For pupils interested in medicine, dentistry,
of the economy.
veterinary science and healthcare. Through medical mysteries, ethical debates, practical
Geography Society
activities and real-world case studies, pupils
Explore the connections between people, places
explore healthcare careers and scientific
and environments in a rapidly changing world.
advances. MedSoc develops critical thinking,
From climate change and migration to cities and
communication and leadership skills while fostering
global development, pupils investigate key
the curiosity, compassion and sense of
geographical issues through discussion and real-
responsibility at the heart of healthcare.
world examples. Highlights include the annual debate with Merchant Taylors’ School and talks
History Society
from staff and guest speakers.
Uncover the stories, people and events that have
Classics Society
shaped our world. Pupils explore historical
Journey into the worlds of Ancient Greece and
mysteries, challenge accepted interpretations and
Rome, exploring mythology, politics, warfare and
make connections between the past and present.
everyday life. Through discussion, activities and
Through discussion and investigation, History
big ideas, pupils discover how the classical world
Society encourages curiosity, critical thinking and a
continues to influence our language, culture,
deeper understanding of the world around us.
politics and society today.
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a m a r D Drama at St Helen's gives pupils the chance to perform, create and grow in confidence. From the Middle School Play and Joint Productions with Merchant Taylors’ School to performance Showcases and full-scale School Productions, there are opportunities for every aspiring actor, singer and storyteller to shine. The department also offers the highly popular LAMDA programme, with students able to work towards qualifications in Acting, Musical Theatre, Public Speaking and Devising. These courses help pupils develop performance skills, creativity, communication and self-confidence, both on and off the stage. Whether taking centre stage or working as part of the cast, pupils develop creativity, collaboration and the confidence to perform with courage.
“The productions are such a highlight of the year. Performing in front of an audience is challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I've made some of my closest friends through Drama.”
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t r o p S Sport plays a central role in life at St Helen’s, helping pupils develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and a lifelong love of being active. With opportunities available before school, at lunchtime and after school, pupils can build skills, represent the school in competition and enjoy trying new activities in a supportive environment. Our extensive programme includes Netball, Hockey, Football, Swimming, Dance, Trampolining, Badminton, Cross Country, Pentathlon and more, catering for all interests and abilities. Through expert coaching and our Athletic Development Programme, pupils develop strength, speed, agility and physical confidence, creating a strong foundation for sporting success. As an official Pentathlon GB Hub, St Helen’s also offers specialist training opportunities, enabling pupils to excel in this exciting multi-discipline sport. Whether aiming for competitive success, personal improvement or enjoyment, every girl is encouraged to participate, challenge herself and thrive through sport.
"Sport has taught me to keep going even when things are difficult. Winning is great, but I've learned just as much from challenging myself."
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c i s Mu “Whether you love singing, playing an instrument or trying something new, there’s always something exciting happening in Music.” Music is a vibrant and valued part of life at St Helen’s, with opportunities for pupils to perform, collaborate and develop their musical talents throughout the week. With clubs and ensembles running before school, during breaktimes and after school, there is something for every musician, regardless of experience or ability. Pupils can take part in a wide range of ensembles, including Choirs, Senior Chamber Singers, St Helen’s Orchestra, Wind Band, String Orchestra and Concert Band, as well as specialist groups such as Rock Band, Brass Ensemble, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir and Percussion Ensemble. These groups provide regular opportunities to rehearse, perform and work alongside fellow musicians, developing both musical skills and lasting friendships. Whether singing, playing, composing or performing, pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves, express their creativity and grow in confidence. Through participation in our Music Clubs and ensembles, pupils develop musical excellence, teamwork and a lifelong appreciation of music in a supportive and inspiring environment.
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St Helen’s School Eastbury Road, Northwood Middlesex HA6 3AS enquiries@sthelens.london 01923 843210 www.sthelens.london
@sthelensnorthwood @sthelensnorthwood