Jo Vila, Deputy Head of Co-Curricular at Berkhamsted Schools Group, on why extracurricular activities are an important safe space for young people to step up to challenges and build character

Our understanding of what constitutes a ‘good education’ no longer relies purely on academic results. Schools are spaces for personal development, where learning teamwork, leadership and self-reflection is just as important as studying maths, English or science. Many of these so-called soft skills are fostered during a school’s extracurricular provisions, through clubs and societies or sports teams. This is an essential and rewarding aspect of school life that forms lifelong memories for many pupils, also helping to develop life skills and shape character.

While, by definition, extracurricular refers to the opportunities available beyond the realm of the classroom, this can sometimes feel like a vague, floating space outside of timetabled lessons. There is sometimes a sense that these opportunities simply fall into pupils’ laps or that they take the initiative to seek them out themselves. In reality, many of the incredible opportunities available can get lost in the bustle of school life, which is why schools need to spotlight the opportunities available to every pupil.

Giving departments the space and time to highlight their extracurricular offerings within the workings of the school day can inspire pupils to imagine themselves in the shoes of their peers. This might entail recruiting pupils in music or drama clubs across all year groups to perform during break or including a CCF parade during a commemorative event. Exposing pupils to activities undertaken by a mixture of age groups showcases the benefits of joining a cross-cohort club or society. Interacting with pupils from all year groups is vital for developing well-rounded and adaptable individuals, and it is often during extracurricular activities that these relationships are formed.

“Extracurricular activities give pupils the space to fail within a safe environment, so they go on to face challenges head-on”

Pupils’ natural instinct directs them towards the path of least resistance. Often, the activities they choose reinforce a pre-established skillset, rather than opening up new avenues for development. So, to truly develop as people, they need to experience as wide a range of activities as possible. Particularly in Years 7-9, participating in a broad spectrum of activities – sport, music, drama, CCF – equips them with the knowledge to find their passions in order to follow a more tailored path later down the line. A willingness to try anything, even in an unfamiliar environment, builds confidence and resilience. Extracurricular activities give pupils the space to fail within a safe environment, so they go on to face challenges head-on.

At Berkhamsted, we ensure these opportunities for continuous self-development do not get overlooked. Through a highly specific tutor system, we invest in our pupils’ growth by celebrating achievements, while encouraging each individual to seek out new challenges and unexplored paths. With their tutor as their champion, pupils feel inspired to push themselves beyond their own comfort zone, developing transferable skills for success both at school and beyond.

Many of our Year 13 students will look back on their journey through school and highlight a moment that marked a turning point in their confidence. This won’t be excelling at the sport they already knew they were good at or achieving top grades in their favourite subject. Rather, it will be the time they took on the lead in the school play despite their stage fright, or stepped into a leadership role they didn’t quite feel ready for. These moments, more than anything, are what shape the individual they become.

Berkhamsted Schools Group berkhamsted.com

Further reading: Wellington College on exploring big ideas

Berkhamsted Berkhamsted Schools Group co-curricular extracurricular Feature Featured independent schools prep senior senior school