Upper Prep Co-CurricularCreativity, critical thinking & teamwork

Co-Curricular and Activities in Upper Prep

The strong academic curriculum is only a part of what makes an education at Barrow Hills so special. There is so much more that goes on beyond the confines of the traditional classroom and our co-curricular activities play a vital part in developing a variety of attributes in our children.

For every child, engaging in activities beyond the curriculum can enrich their whole School experience and connection with others. We provide an encouraging environment where pupils are supported to enjoy the simple pleasure of taking part in activities and where those wishing to excel in their passions are supported in their goals, whatever they be within or beyond the provision in art, drama, design technology, music and sport.

Involving everyone

The core elements of our co-curricular programme are timetabled during the school day and are accessed by all of the children at Barrow Hills. All children develop their skills in Art, DT, Music, Drama and Sport in their lessons but we ask them to ‘get busy’ beyond the classroom and try out as many new co-curricular activities as time permits as well as engaging in those they are already familiar with and enjoy. We ask them to be academically ambitious, to reach further and remember that they have an important role to play within society, not apart from it; to find exciting opportunity in and passion for more than just academic learning.

Our extensive co-curricular programme gives opportunity to try a wide range of new experiences, some 30+ co-curricular clubs and activities altogether each week. Our dedicated busy children grasp this opportunity with both hands and get stuck in. In summary 75 music lessons each week at Barrow Hills, over 40% of our children enjoy one of our three choirs each week, 100% of of Prep and Upper Prep represent our school in one of over 185 sports fixtures held each term, not to mention our NINE drama productions each year or our 30 engaging and enriching school trips.

Happy. Busy. Achieving. Thriving. Barrow Hills children are all of this and more.

“I really enjoy attending the debating club because it enables me to build a strong and constructive argument.” (Year 6 child)

Once a fire is kindled, we work hard to keep it burning.

We offer a broad range, so there’s most definitely something for everybody at Barrow Hills. Many activities complement our regular sports and PE programme, such as tennis coaching, judo, tap and jazz and ballet lessons, LAMDA and musical theatre lessons supplement our rich drama opportunities and in addition to these, we have a popular Adventure Club, run by our Forest School leader and our fantastic new Mountain Biking Club led out weekly by our very own Head and chief adventurer, John Towers.

We are always open to new ideas – we have recently added a Magic Club to our mix. Our Heads of Subject are always on the lookout for talents in their area, and in Years 7 and 8 they run an exciting array of enrichment sessions to develop these talents further.

By participating in these activities, children not only expand their knowledge and skills but also build friendships, develop leadership qualities, and foster a sense of belonging and school pride. Our co-curricular timetable promotes creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork, preparing children for success in their academic endeavours and beyond.

All attributes which help to develop our children in their endeavours to be ‘prepared for greater things’

Barrow Hills Co-Curricular Spring Timetable

As Director of Sport I believe passionately in making sure we instill a desire for all of our children to stay active playing sport throughout all stages of life. My greatest privilege working with the children at Barrow Hills is their willingness to join in every day and watching how talented they are on the sports pitch by the time they leave.

Barrow Hills Children are always good spirited in theirs sporting endeavours – resilient when taking a defeat/knock in sport and humble in their triumphs. They are joyful no matter what the result.

100% of of Prep and Upper Prep represent our school in one of over 185 sports fixtures held each term.
Madelon Burnett, Director of Sport

As Head of Drama, I believe passionately that every child should have the opportunity to participate in a drama production as it offers a platform for them to shine, build confidence and discover talents they never realised they had.

One parent recently shared, ” I could tell how much they’ve grown in confidence and skill under your guidance. The lines, the acting, and the overall performance were truly impressive.”
Luisa Mason. Head of Upper Prep and Drama

Computing and AI curriculum

Our Computing and AI curriculum serves as a powerful catalyst for deepening our pupils' learning and fostering critical thinking. Our pupils develop confidence in the positive application of technology, underpinned by strong moral foundations.

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The best way to experience what life is like at Barrow Hills is to join us at an Open Morning. You will have the chance to talk to pupils and teachers about what makes our school such a magical place, and to ask any questions you have about life here.

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