Extra Curricular
Our mission statement recognises that success does not just take place in the classroom and so at Copthorne we value and actively encourage participation in a wide range of activities outside of normal lessons.
It is our aim to provide a broad and well-rounded education that prepares pupils not only for academic success but also to live life to the full as a confident and independent member of the school community.
Regular educational visits and field trips open up a wealth of learning opportunities both at home and abroad. Residential trips to outdoor activity centres develop pupils’ physical abilities, personal attributes and team-building skills whilst the Arts and Language trips develop each pupils more creative and linguistic qualities. For the more active and adventurous the annual ski trip to the Italian Alps is a highlight, as is the Year 8 Leavers’ trip to the West Coast of France for a week of water sports.
Pupils visit theatres, concerts and art galleries, take part in regular music concerts and a range of drama productions. Visiting speakers for our ‘Day in the Life of’ and workshops in Art, Drama, Music and English all help to widen the curriculum.
Recent appointments have expanded our ability to offer outdoor activities both on and off site with climbing, kayaking, archery, orienteering and camp craft all proving popular choices. Holiday clubs and overnight camping have also been well received particularly by working parents.
Copthorne has a strong tradition of encouraging pupils to take part in the performing and expressive arts and there are numerous opportunities for pupils to develop their skills in these areas including an Art Club, Pottery Club, Ballet Club, Jazz Dance Club, Street Dance Club, the School Choir, the School Orchestra, Speech and Drama groups and tuition in a range of musical instruments.
Extra-curricular sports include football, rugby, cricket, swimming, athletics, tennis, table tennis, fencing, karate, golf and gymnastics and we promote involvement in national and local competitions. We also offer cookery, touch typing, science, maths, history and craft clubs. Tuition in Chess has also helped us develop a hugely successful chess squad.
Some activities are only available at certain times of the year as the weather, temperature and available light can have a bearing on the safety and well-being of the pupils. The full range of activities that are available each term is published at the beginning of the term and Parents are asked to register their child for their chosen activities at the earliest possible opportunity.
