Enrichment
Enrichment
Overview:
At OPGS we believe that education extends beyond the classroom and that a rich programme of enrichment and wider opportunities plays an important role in preparing students for life beyond school. We aim to ensure that enrichment is accessible, purposeful and inclusive, so that every student has opportunities to discover talents and interests, develop confidence and resilience, build relationships and broaden their experiences. OPGS promotes a broad and well-rounded offer encompassing areas such as sport and physical activity, arts and culture, civic engagement and wider life and future skills.
Every year group benefits from five dedicated annual enrichment days, providing experiences beyond the usual curriculum and allowing students to develop new interests, skills and knowledge. These days include opportunities to work with external organisations and specialists, explore new subjects and experiences, and develop confidence and independence in their curriculum areas. We regularly welcome visitors, guest speakers and external organisations into school, giving students the opportunity to hear directly from people with expertise and experience beyond the school community. These encounters broaden students’ horizons and provide authentic perspectives on different careers, communities, cultures and areas of interest like the Y9 First Aid Qualification. Our enrichment programme is closely connected to the curriculum. Departments provide trips, clubs, visits and experiences that bring learning to life beyond the classroom. Science, History, Geography and Art, alongside other curriculum areas provide students with opportunities to experience places, environments, cultural institutions and activities that deepen their understanding and complement classroom learning.
Our enrichment provision is complemented by a comprehensive programme of Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG). Students are supported to understand their options, make informed decisions and develop the knowledge and skills required for their next steps in education, employment or training. This includes work experience, careers events, employer and professional encounters, and our annual Y12 Careers Evening, where students and their families can engage with a range of further education, higher education, training and employment opportunities. Our aim is for students to leave school not only academically prepared for their next steps, but also confident, resilient, culturally aware, socially responsible and ready to contribute positively to life beyond school.
