What to Look for in a School’s Extracurricular Programs
Description: When choosing a school, it’s easy to focus solely on academics. But extracurricular activities—from sports and performing arts to leadership and service opportunities—are just as vital in shaping a child’s character, confidence, and life skills. A strong extracurricular programme can significantly enhance your child’s school experience and future prospects.
Benefit: This guide explains the value of extracurricular activities and helps parents evaluate a school’s co-curricular and enrichment offerings during an open day or school visit.
Why Extracurricular Activities Matter
Extracurricular activities play a critical role in a child’s personal development. They allow pupils to:
- Discover and nurture their passions
- Build social skills, resilience, and teamwork
- Gain leadership experience and confidence
- Maintain physical and emotional wellbeing
- Stand out on university applications or scholarship entries
In fact, top universities—including Oxford, Cambridge, and Russell Group institutions—often look beyond academic grades to understand a student’s wider interests, commitment, and character.
What to Look For in a School’s Extracurricular Programme
When evaluating a school’s extracurricular offering, consider the breadth, depth, inclusivity, and ethos behind it. Here are key things to observe and ask about:
1. Range of Activities Offered
Look for a diverse selection of clubs and opportunities across different categories:
- Sports: football, rugby, hockey, netball, tennis, athletics, swimming, rowing, etc.
- Creative arts: music ensembles, choirs, drama productions, visual arts, film, dance
- STEM clubs: robotics, coding, maths challenges, science societies
- Academic enrichment: debating, Model United Nations, book clubs, language clubs
- Community service: volunteering, charity work, eco-initiatives
- Adventure & outdoors: Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, outdoor education, field trips
- Leadership: prefect roles, student council, mentoring schemes
The broader the offering, the more likely your child will find something they truly connect with.
2. Participation vs. Performance
Some schools focus heavily on elite competition, while others aim for inclusive participation. Ideally, a school should offer:
- Competitive teams for high-performing students
- Entry-level clubs or house competitions for beginners
- Opportunities for all pupils to try something new
Ask whether extracurriculars are mandatory, optional, or tiered by age or ability.
3. Timetable Integration
Strong schools prioritise extracurriculars within the timetable, not just as an afterthought. Ask:
- Are clubs offered during lunch breaks or after school?
- Are students encouraged (or required) to participate in at least one activity?
- How does the school ensure a balance between academics and co-curricular life?
Schools that embed activities into their culture tend to value the whole child, not just academic success.
4. Staff Involvement and Expertise
Passionate, well-trained staff lead to engaging activities. Ask:
- Are sports teams coached by PE staff or professional coaches?
- Are music lessons taught by specialist peripatetic teachers?
- Do teachers run clubs outside their subject areas out of personal interest?
The enthusiasm of staff often shapes the quality and consistency of the extracurricular experience.
5. Facilities and Resources
Look at the facilities linked to extracurricular life. For example:
- A music school with practice rooms and performance spaces
- A drama theatre with lighting, costume stores, and tech support
- Dedicated art studios or sports halls
- Outdoor pitches, courts, and swimming pools
High-quality facilities can significantly enrich a child’s engagement and development in their chosen interests.
6. Student Leadership Opportunities
Some of the best learning happens outside the classroom when students are leading:
- Are older pupils encouraged to lead clubs or mentor younger students?
- Is there a student council or prefect system?
- Are students involved in planning events or community service projects?
Leadership builds confidence, responsibility, and teamwork—qualities that benefit children for life.
7. Tracking & Celebrating Involvement
Ask how the school recognises student involvement:
- Are achievements celebrated in assemblies or newsletters?
- Are there awards or certificates for extracurricular participation?
- Do activities feature in school reports or personal development plans?
When schools take extracurriculars seriously, they’ll track and celebrate progress—not just attendance.
Questions to Ask During a School Visit or Open Day
- What percentage of students take part in extracurricular activities?
- Are pupils encouraged to try new things or specialise early?
- What support is available for students juggling commitments?
- Can my child continue a passion (e.g., violin, ballet, coding) if they join mid-year?
Are there clubs for international students or activities that promote cultural exchange?
Final Thoughts: A Balanced Education
Academics open doors—but it’s often extracurricular involvement that shapes your child’s character, passions, and lifelong friendships. The most nurturing schools will see your child as more than just a set of grades and will actively invest in helping them grow beyond the classroom.
When choosing a school, don’t just ask what grades they get. Ask what kind of person your child could become there.
