Clubs and Societies
There are many clubs and societies that operate in the school. Activities on offer vary each term according to the particular expertise of staff or the particular interests of students. For example, opportunities have existed recently for students to write for a school newsletter, to play chess or table tennis, to practise golf on the school’s own mini-course, to join an Art Club or to watch historical films.
There are some activities and societies specifically for Sixth Form students, to help them broaden their knowledge and understanding beyond what they learn in the classroom, for example:
‘Culture Club’ – This involves a presentation to Sixth Formers by a visiting speaker. Meetings take place every fortnight on Wednesday evening between 7.30 and 9.00pm. Sixth Formers are invited to attend a buffet supper with the guest speaker before the presentation. Attendance is not compulsory but all Sixth Form students are strongly encouraged to broaden their horizons by attending. Examples of recent events include a talk by Mr Francis McCauley, International Director of Debenhams about opportunities within the business world; a presentation on reflexology and a talk by David Reddin MBE on England’s Rugby World Cup story.
Rosmini Society – This group, organised by the Rector, Father Giles, meets once a month to discuss spiritual, moral and ethical matters. Topics are wide ranging and the idea is to encourage students to discuss their own values and beliefs and to open their minds to the ideas and views of others. Recent meetings have included a visit from a local Rabbi and a discussion about the sanctity of life. The Rosmini Society is a lively and educational forum for debate and discussion.
Languages Society – There are film evenings, trips to local events such as plays or exhibitions, meals out at French or Spanish restaurants and opportunities to take part in taster evenings for continental food and drink. Students studying a foreign language are encouraged to attend, but others are also welcome.
History Society – Primarily for History students, but also open to anyone with an interest in the past, talks are given, films are shown and trips are arranged to help students develop their understanding of historical events, not just those relating directly to the topics they are studying in the Sixth Form, but also to those of a wider historical theme. This term there will be a meeting which will include a history film called ‘Downfall.’
Science Society – Talks and practical activities are organised for Science students, and others, to help develop their appreciation of the scientific world. This term’s talks will include areas such as Conversation and Asteroid activity.
Young Enterprise Scheme
This scheme provides an opportunity for students in Year 12 to gain a personal experience of how business works, to understand the role it plays in providing employment and creating prosperity and to prepare for working life. Students have the experience of running their own company, supported by volunteer advisors from the world of work.
Young Enterprise ‘achievers’ elect a board of directors of their company, raise share capital, market and finance a product or service of their own choice. At the end of the year they present a report and accounts to their shareholders. For students with initiative, an idea about a prospective product that could be produced and sold, with a view to making a profit, then Young Enterprise is the ideal forum for their talents.
Commitment to the Young Enterprise Scheme involves planning and preparation sessions in students’ own time and attendance at weekly board meetings, or activity meetings, usually after school on Wednesday.
Those who participate in the Young Enterprise Scheme can gain the OCR Certificate in Enterprise Examination Award at Level 2. This is equivalent to an extra GCSE for their UCAS application.
