Enrichment in Sixth Form
Life in all it's fullness
Enrichment is for everyone - you do not need to be studying the subject to join in! It is important that all students maximise their potential inside and outside of the classroom. Our diverse enrichment programme will help you to gain numerous life skills, develop your interests and try out new things.
By taking part in enrichment, you will enhance your learning, add a dimension to your CV, make new friends and immerse yourself in Sixth Form life. Below are just some of the opportunities available to you.
Duke of Edinburgh
DofE is about developing transferable skills in teamwork, communication and empowering and challenging young people to have a positive impact on their local community. If you are brand new to DofE, then please spend some time browsing www.dofe.org to decide if it’s right for you. DofE is designed to be challenging, most students gain a lot from taking part and have a lot of fun!
Gumley House will support Expeditions, and provide advice on the other sections, but students are responsible for organising their own skills, volunteering, physical, and (for Gold) residential sections. The DofE Award is optional and you have until your 25th birthday to complete all four (five for Gold) sections.
Sports Clubs
A wide range of sports clubs are available, from team games to individual pursuits. These clubs promote fitness, teamwork, and discipline, while also offering pathways to competitive fixtures. The impact is holistic: students build resilience, leadership, and wellbeing through active participation.
Young Reporter Scheme
The Young Reporter Scheme gives students the chance to write and publish articles on current issues, school life, and community events. Working with professional editors, students develop journalistic skills, confidence in writing, and a stronger voice in public discourse. The impact is seen in improved literacy, communication, and awareness of social issues.
Science Olympiads
Our students take part in national and international Science Olympiads, tackling challenging problems in biology, chemistry, and physics. These competitions encourage critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity beyond the standard curriculum. Participation raises aspirations, develops problem-solving skills, and often leads to recognition at regional and national levels.
Women of the World Programme
The WOW London festival is a chance to be part of the global movement and see world-class speakers, activists, musicians and comedians over a three day conference of life-changing conversations, incredible performances and interactive workshops. Each day festival-goers can explore a totally different line-up of dozens of talks, workshops, performances, music and more.
Subject Support
We provide targeted subject support sessions across the curriculum, offering students additional guidance in areas where they need to build confidence or stretch their learning further. These sessions help consolidate classroom knowledge, improve exam readiness, and foster independent study habits. The impact is seen in improved attainment, greater resilience, and stronger engagement with learning.
National Citizen Service (Bronze Award)
Through the NCS Bronze Award, students engage in social action projects, residential experiences, and community volunteering. This nationally recognised programme develops leadership, teamwork, and civic responsibility. The impact is long-term, equipping students with transferable skills and a sense of pride in contributing to society.
Oxbridge Programme (Medical or Veterinary school)
Our Oxbridge preparation programme supports high-achieving students aspiring to study Medicine or Veterinary Science. It includes admissions test preparation, mock interviews, and mentoring from Oxbridge alumni. The impact is significant: students gain confidence, sharpen academic skills, and increase their chances of success in highly competitive applications.
Cooking for University
Cooking for University workshops prepare students for independent living. They learn to cook healthy, affordable meals, manage budgets, and develop life skills. The impact is practical and immediate: students leave ready to thrive at university with confidence in self-care and wellbeing.
Languages and Cultures
Our Languages and Cultures enrichment celebrates diversity through workshops, cultural events, and immersion activities. Students gain appreciation for global perspectives, strengthen language skills, and develop intercultural competence. The impact is a more inclusive outlook and readiness for life in a global society.
UCAS Preparation
We provide structured UCAS preparation, including personal statement workshops, interview practice, and guidance on course choices. The impact is clear: students submit strong applications, feel confident in their decisions, and secure places at universities aligned with their aspirations.
Debate Club
Debate Club develops oracy, critical thinking, and confidence. Students engage in structured debates on topical issues, learning to argue respectfully and persuasively. The impact is transformative: participants gain skills valued by universities and employers, and often progress to regional competitions.
Blue Planet Club
The Blue Planet Club explores marine biology, conservation, and sustainability through projects and visits. Students learn about ocean ecosystems and environmental responsibility. The impact is heightened awareness of ecological issues and practical action to protect our planet.
Eco Committee
Our Eco Committee leads sustainability initiatives across the school, from recycling to energy-saving projects. Students take ownership of environmental action, influencing peers and staff. The impact is measurable: reduced waste, greener practices, and empowered student leadership in climate action.
University Visits
We organise visits to leading universities, giving students first-hand experience of campus life, lectures, and admissions processes. The impact is motivational: students gain clarity about higher education pathways and feel inspired to aim high.
Spiritual Retreats
Spiritual retreats provide time away from routine for prayer, reflection, and community building. Rooted in Catholic ethos, these retreats nurture faith, resilience, and personal growth. The impact is deepened spirituality and stronger bonds within the school community.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
The EPQ allows students to research a topic of their choice, producing a dissertation, artefact, or performance. It develops independent learning, critical thinking, and project management skills. The impact is significant: EPQs enhance UCAS applications and prepare students for university-level study.
Academic Summer Schools
Students attend prestigious academic summer schools at universities such as Eton, Oxford and Cambridge. These programmes provide subject immersion, cultural experiences, and networking opportunities. The impact is broadened horizons, enhanced academic skills, and strengthened university applications.
'Ace Your Exams' workshops
Our exam preparation workshops teach effective revision strategies, stress management, and memory techniques. The impact is immediate: students feel more confident, organised, and capable of achieving their best results.
Personal Development
Personal development enrichment covers leadership, wellbeing, volunteering, and life skills. Students grow in confidence, resilience, and responsibility, preparing them for adulthood. The impact is holistic: young people leave Gumley House as well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society.