4 minute read
Enriching experience
An insight into our rich and exciting co-curricular programme...
4.85
9
4.85 is the average number of clubs attended by students 9 competitions organised by clubs
There are 118 sports clubs
99.72% of students are currently enrolled in at least one club
99.72
19 is the most number of clubs attended by one student
There are 76 music clubs
There are 70 academic support clinics
There are 350+ co-curricular clubs and societies
There are 5 drama clubs
Clubs with the most students enrolled...
Sparking curiosity
We’re very proud of the extensive co-curricular programme at Trinity, which offers students the opportunity to try a diverse range of activities to complement their formal learning.
Our co-curricular activities are split into three categories: Academic Enrichment, Co-curricular Enrichment and Sport. Within each category there are opportunities for students to develop new skills and passions, a sense of adventure and to build their self-confidence. We talk about the importance of values; co-curricular activities allow students to put those values into action on a daily or weekly basis.
Students can find others with shared interests, however niche, which creates a sense of community, and in turn can improve mental wellbeing. Some need time out from their hectic schedules and there are many quieter activities which help students refocus and refresh. There are plenty of social and competitive sports clubs too, which can help students improve their overall fitness and confidence.
As well as the activity itself, clubs are an opportunity for students to develop other life skills, as many are student-led. They’ll need to promote the club, organise events, drive campaigns and even present during a whole school assembly.
This year, students have suggested and set up clubs including Rubix Cube Club, Film Club and India Society. Next term we see the return of Electric Go-Kart Club, Creative Writing Club and Astronomy Club.
Read on for a taster of the extensive co-curricular offer at Trinity.
Academic enrichment
Academic clinics
Every department runs lunchtime clinics for any student looking for additional support or help with projects or homework.
Societies
Trinity's academic societies are ‘supercurricular’. Open to Sixth Form students only, they are designed to challenge their thinking, broaden perspectives and prepare them for life after Trinity.
Students often present projects on specialist subjects: the quality of research, knowledge and thinking is TED Talkworthy. Societies cover Philosophy, Politics, Literature, Psychology, Chemistry, Senior Debating, Pre-University Geography and Languages. Many students, and even staff, attend these to learn more.
Every term a select number of Sixth Form students are awarded a coveted Trinity Society Tie for their sustained commitment and significant contribution to these societies.
Everyone for STEM (Sixth Form)
Set up by two students last year, the society explores issues with a focus on gender equality and under-representation of minority groups within STEM. During this year’s British Science Week, the whole school community was asked to nominate scientists that best represent them and their culture, for possible inclusion within future lessons.
“As one of the only girls studying Maths, Chemistry and Physics, I became interested in the area of gender equality and representation in science and the need to challenge current references.” Lenka Carter, Upper Sixth and club founder.
Astronomy club (Open to all)
Astronomy enthusiasts can sign up for practical sessions during Summer Terms. Weather dependent, the school’s Dobsonian reflectors will be wheeled out under the stars to undertake awe-inspiring observations.
"My favourite thing is using big telescopes to see things you can't see with the naked eye, like Jupiter and four of its moons. I go to lots of clubs like Young Engineers and Computer Science Club," said Debarun Deb, Third Year.
Co-curricular enrichment
Knit and natter (Open to all) Students come together to learn casting on, basic stitches, crochet and some sewing techniques in a relaxedw environment.
“I joined with my friends for the sense of community and to have some quiet time in my week. I also go to Further Physics club.” Richard Wild, Fifth Year
Model making and painting (First Years) Students head to the DT Department to make and paint model airplanes such as Spitfires and fantastic creatures.
“It’s quiet, calm and we get to hear stories about historic airplanes from Mr. Townsend. I’m also in the Hockey and Water Polo teams.” Micah Thompson, First Year.
African Caribbean Society (ACS) (Open to all)
A space for students to share their culture, discuss important issues in their families, communities and the broader world and celebrate black pioneers. The ACS regularly meets with similar clubs from Old Palace and Whitgift schools for social events and networking.
Four students also led the whole school assembly for Black History Month in October inspired by activist Marian Wright Edelman’s words: ‘You can’t be what you can’t see’. The students showcased successful black individuals who have influenced the music, business, fashion and film industries.
Sport
Chess (Open to all)
The popularity of competitive chess at Trinity grew during lockdown, as it could be played online among students. Despite a lull on the return to school, it has now grown to have the highest attendance. There are regular speed competitions to fundraise for charity and the school will soon be entering external tournaments.
“I love the competitive nature of chess and enjoy being able to play against my friends in the library at lunch. Chess Club lets you play against different players across the school which has really improved my game.”
Sam Broadley-Flack, First Year
Open sub-aqua (Fourth Year and above) Students can complete a PADI open water referral, with weekly pool sessions to learn new skills in the water. Spaces are limited, and there is a waiting list.
“As a water polo player, I love being in the water and scuba gear makes me feel like I’ve got superpowers. With this certificate I’ll be able to dive outside of school without an instructor and discover the beautiful landscapes underwater.”