Extra-Curricular activities are a vital aspect in any child’s development and this is no exception at Webber. Outside the standard curriculum, there are a plethora of opportunities for our children to learn new skills and ignite new passions that could last a lifetime through the activities on offer.
Our 2020 ISI report highlighted how powerful Extra-Curricular Activities are within the school;
‘Pupils achieve highly, and a few at exceptional levels, in a wide range of extra-curricular activities’.
Over the course of this term, children throughout the school have had the opportunity to return to the wide variety of extra-curricular activities (ECAs). As a school we are able to offer a host of activities that cover sports and the arts through to activities that develop and nurture the children’s mental health and well-being. Within the Junior school, our Year 6 Prefects run two weekly clubs for Year 1 and 2 children. This allows the Prefects to demonstrate their leadership and responsibility allowing them to develop skills such as communication, problem solving and team building.
Although the children are encouraged to participate in two hours of clubs and activities, many opt to use a number of their lunch breaks to attend clubs. It is this enthusiasm that allows them not only to learn new skills but also to build relationships with their peers.
The wide range of 40+ activities on offer coupled with the excellent teaching has a positive impact on each child’s personal development. Some of the benefits of attending extra-curricular activities include:
- Learning new skills - ECAs allow children to learn new skills that could stay with them for a lifetime. They instil key skills and personality traits that provide continued benefits way beyond the classroom.
- Boost performance - Many of the skills that are central to ECAs can be implemented into academic subjects. Lessons require problem-solving, memory, creativity and critical thinking. Research has indicated a direct link between extra-curricular participation and improved academic performance.
- Social skills development - ECAs allow children to mix, this often can be between multiple year groups in a more social setting. This opportunity allows them to develop social skills, build friendships and evolve their communication abilities. Many activities can aid self-esteem and confidence; good self-esteem is important to positive mental health and well-being.
The school prides itself on the wide and varied offering of ECAs available to all children; many of the clubs and activities are created and organised following discussions with children and reflect our staff’s own passion or their unique skills set. They cater for children's curiosity, for those who enjoy sports, are passionate about the Arts through to those who thrive on more academic challenges. It is this variety that allows the children to broaden their own experiences and enjoyment. For some children it has offered a taste and insight into a new hobby that they then pursue further outside of school.
You can find more information about the Extra-Curricular activities we are currently running here.
Mr Simon Jeacock
Year 5 Class Teacher/ SENCO