Extracurricular opportunities

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Fostering Excellence Beyond the Classroom

At St. Thomas More Catholic High School, we believe that education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. We are proud to offer a rich tapestry of extra-curricular and wider enrichment opportunities that are accessible to all students, including those who are disadvantaged or have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Our commitment to holistic development is at the core of everything we do.

Inclusivity for All

“Every student, regardless of their background or abilities, deserves a chance to shine.”

At St. Thomas More, we champion inclusivity, and that extends to our extra-curricular activities and enrichment programmes. We firmly believe that every student has unique talents and potential waiting to be discovered. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that these opportunities are not just available, but also accessible to all. We take pride in fostering a sense of belonging and community where every student feels valued and supported.

Benefits of Holistic Development

“Education is not just about what we learn; it’s about who we become.”

Our focus on holistic development goes beyond academic excellence. Here’s why it matters:

• Confidence and Character Building: Through participation in a wide range of activities, students develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self. They learn to embrace challenges, take risks, and grow from their experiences.
• Social Skills and Teamwork: Extra-curricular activities provide a platform for students to collaborate, communicate, and build meaningful relationships. These skills are essential for success in school, future careers, and life in general.
• Diverse Perspectives: By engaging in diverse enrichment opportunities, students gain exposure to new ideas, cultures, and experiences. This broadens their horizons and encourages them to become open-minded global citizens.
• Personalised Growth: We recognise that every student is unique. Our enrichment programme allows them to explore their passions and interests, helping them discover their strengths and potential career paths.

Evidence of a Holistic Education

 Experiences offered beyond the classroom 24-25 (An example of a typical half term)

• On average 1200 positive referrals per month for attending after school extra-curricular clubs and events including representing the school.
• Year 12 Oxbridge Trip – Year 12 and 13 (8 students)
• Year 12 EPQ Library visits – (34 students)
• Music trip to see Wicked (30 students Year 7 -13)
• German exchange (Year 10 24 students)
• Year 8 Youth Village residential two-night retreat (150 students over 4 nights)
• Year 13 Literature trip to Haworth (24 students)
• Year 13 Geography 2-day Lake district Trip – (7 students)
• Year 11 Geography fieldwork x 2 days 1 Physical and 1 Human (110 students)
• Year 13 Biology Centre for Life Trip (24 students)
• Year 10 English Travel Writing Trip Newcastle Uni (30 Year 10 students)
• Year 12 Auschwitz visit (2 Year 12)
• North Tyneside Holocaust memorial event (2 students Year 12)
• Year 9 ICT / Business Trip Flamingo Land Trip (119 students)
• Year 13 English Literature London residential (14 students)
• Year 13 History London Tudors residential (13 students)
• Year 10 and 11 STEM London residential Trip (21 students)
• Year 13 Cinema trip to Jam Jar Media (10 Students)
• African Heritage Trail Year 12 and 13 (8 students)
• Year 9 Nissan STEM Trip (14 students)
• Lourdes sponsored Walk (8 students)
• Advent Voluntary Mass (550 students approx.)
• Year 8 Empower Cyber event St James Park (46 students)
• Year 8 RE Ampleforth residential (30 students)
• Year 12 and 13 Maths Olympiad (5 students)
• Year 12 Goethe Institute debating competition (5 students)
• Year 11 Christmas Carol theatre visit (45 students)
• Ski -Trip January (60 students KS3 and 5)
• St. Thomas More Feast Day (Approx 600 students and parents)
• School Musical.
• Events for all
• Year 11 Taster Day / College visits
• Fire safety talks all of Year 7
• Whole school Citizen’s bus event
• Whole school elections
• Wear Red Day

Support for Disadvantaged and SEND Students

“Empowering every student to thrive, regardless of challenges.”

Our commitment to inclusivity extends to our most disadvantaged and SEND students. We provide tailored support and accommodations to ensure that every child can participate fully in our extra-curricular and enrichment activities. This support includes:

• Accessible Facilities: Our school site is designed to be fully accessible, and we have dedicated spaces for students with SEND.
• Specialised Staff: Our experienced staff includes Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) who work closely with students, parents, and teachers to create individualised plans.
• Mentoring and Guidance: We offer mentoring and support services to help disadvantaged students overcome barriers and make the most of their talents.

At St. Thomas More Catholic High School, our commitment is to ensure that every student, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those facing disadvantages, actively participates in a diverse range of school wide enrichment activities. These include:

• Experiencing a spiritual retreat, thoughtfully organised as a residential.
• Embracing spiritual development opportunities such as participation in liturgical events, commemorations of Remembrance Day, and activities focused on Holocaust Memorial.
• Showcasing their athletic prowess and sportsmanship through involvement in various sporting events and competitions.
• Expanding their horizons by attending a variety of internal and external talks, covering a wide spectrum of topics aligned with our Personal Development Programme.

Join Us in Nurturing Well-Rounded Individuals

At St. Thomas More, we are dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are academically capable, socially confident, and morally grounded. Our extra-curricular and wider enrichment opportunities play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.

Join us in this journey of holistic development, where every student is encouraged to explore their passions, embrace diversity, and realise their full potential. Together, we are creating future leaders who will make a positive impact on the world.

We look forward to welcoming your child into our vibrant and inclusive Catholic community.

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