Enrichment and Activities

In the evenings there is an extensive after-school programme on offer to both day and boarding pupils. The large majority of the clubs are free, but where an external instructor is booked, a cost may be applicable. The daily bus services leave at a time that allows day pupils to participate. Day pupils choose options for Monday, Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays between 4.45pm and 5.45pm with additional activities for boarders at 7.30pm. 

There are also supervised homework sessions, which means pupils can come home with their academic work finished for the day.

Every weekend both boarders and day pupils are invited to participate in further activities and trips. The timetable is prepared in advance and circulated to all parents at the end of the preceding term but, in order to accommodate last minute opportunities, as well as the British weather, the programme is supplemented on a weekly basis.

Senior pupils regularly participate in day trips to historic sites, museums, galleries and  natural features to support the curriculum in History, Art History, Geography, English, Biology and Classics. There are regular theatre trips for pupils of all levels. Our choir makes regular concert tours both in the UK and abroad and we have sports tours and a ski trip every two years.

The Ten Tors Challenge is organised by the Army’s Headquarters South West with support from the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. The Challenge is attempted in teams of six who navigate routes of over the northern half of Dartmoor, visiting ten nominated check points in under two days. Teams must be self-sufficient, carrying all they need to complete their route and stay out overnight safely. The Challenge is open to Year 12 students who commit for a period of training as well as the event itself.

Pupils can enrol on the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award at Year 9, Silver at Year 10 and Gold in Year 12. The Award focuses on personal development commitment, independence and responsibility. It is well regarded by both universities and employers and can support further education applications. Participants undertake activities under four headings: volunteering, physical, skills and expedition. The Gold Award takes 12-18 months to complete and includes a 5-day residential when participants have to undertake a shared activity.

Every year Prep 5, Prep 6 and Year 12 spend three days at Residential Activity Centres learning leadership and team building skills through outdoor activities.