The Crypt School

Sixth Form

Enrichment Activities

2017-18

Enrichment at Crypt Sixth Form

Students develop a wide range of skills and personal qualities during their time at the School and leave us as well rounded young adults ready to take on the challenges of the future.

The Enrichment programme is designed to develop the students personal, social and employability skills. The programme is integrated into the broader curriculum with time dedicated to Enrichment on Wednesdays. Students can work towards a non-qualification employability certificate that has been endorsed by GE Aviation.

Wednesday afternoons

Wednesday afternoons are dedicated to enrichment activities. Although not all enrichment activities are available on a Wednesday afternoon, students can choose from a variety of options, including music, art and sport. Options will happen every other half term so students can try a number of activities throughout their time at school.

Enrolment:

Signing up for the sessions above will take place in the main hall on Wednesday 13th September Period 5 and Wednesday 03rd January Period 5.

Students will choose one activity between September and December and one activity between January and April

Enrichment activities

Art Options
Art / Drama options
Drama performing
Drama backstage
Creative Options
Basic cooking
Girls Go4set Engineering
Film Club
Spanish speaking
Russian speaking
Robotics
F1 Engineering
Law and Mock trial day
Target 2.0
Creative Writing competitions
The Young Citizen contributions
First Aid
Young Enterprise / Physical Options
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Netball
Dance
Athletics
Tennis
Fitness in multi gym
Badminton
Yoga
Rock climbing
Duke of Edinburgh
International trips
Iceland
Devon
South Africa
Barbados
Peru
France
Italy
Austria / Service/ leadership options
Student Executive
Prefects
House Captains
Form Captains
Sports leaders
Subject and Peer Mentoring
Work shadowing
World challenge
Charity events
Community volunteering
Music Options
Orchestra
Choir
String group,
Jazz band
Chamber group
Sixth form girls choir
Close harmony group
Music lessons / Societies
Debating Society
Chess club
Student Librarian
Book club
Step Club
Academic
Chemistry Olympiad
Biology Olympiad
Future learn
Open University
General Studies
EPQ / Other
Well- being day
Business breakfast
Career talks
Driver IQ

The options on the following pages are dedicated activities to choose from for a Wednesday afternoon:

Duke of Edinburgh / Lead: Mrs Peake
Description of Activity / The D of E is an award for taking part in other enrichment activities. You can complete either the silver or gold award. The silver takes a year to complete the gold 18 months. You must complete Volunteering, Physical and Skill activities for an hour a week to complete the award which you must organise in your own time. Finally, you must do an expedition and the school will support you to complete this.
Who would be suitable? / Any student willing to put in their free time to work in the three areas of Volunteering, Physical and Skills over an extended period of time.
What is the value of the activity? / You will develop in all three of their chosen activities in areas such as teamwork and leadership. You will gain self-confidence and learn self-reliance and ultimately a sense of achievement. Additionally, the D of E Award is looked at very favourably by employers and universities.
Website/ Further Information / Visit or speak to Mrs Peake
Rugby / Lead- Mr A Bawden
Description of Activity / An opportunity to play competitive sport and represent the school. Training is on a Monday after school and then games are predominately played on a Wednesday afternoon with the occasional Saturday fixture.
Who would be suitable? / Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced rugby player we would love to see you involved. Training and games are very social with a real focus on individual and team development.
What is the value of the activity? / Be part of a team and proud to represent the school.
Social benefits of working with students from Y11, 12 and 13.
Develop rugby specific skills as well as individual skills such as communication, leadership etc.
Website/ Further Information / for fixtures
@cryptPE on twitter for weekly updates
Girls Get Set Engineering / Lead- Mrs Green/ Mr K Downes
Description of Activity / Girls Get Set is a competition endorsed by GE Aviation, who carry out multiple competitions to involve young people in engineering and science; GirlsGetSet is purely focused at girls- this is done to increase the number of girls in engineering and science industries throughout England.
During the competition each team will create a robotic athlete using a Lego Mindstorm kit to compete in a number of events in the GE Olympics. You will be competing against other grammar schools in the area to develop the best robotic athlete and to win gold for The Crypt!
You need no prior experience in engineering you just need an interest in Lego!
Who would be suitable? / Girls in year 12 who are enthusiastic about STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering or maths) or girls who are interested in business. Highly recommended for A Level physics, maths, chemistry, biology, business or economics students.
What is the value of the activity? / This enrichment option will allow you:
  • The opportunity to work on problems;
  • The use of facilities to develop skills in problem solving and gain a greater awareness of possible career opportunities;
  • The exposure to a variety of engineering/physics problems in context;
  • Learn about the business world;
  • Resolve problems, while being supported by older students;
  • To gain knowledge of fundamental physics that you will learn throughout A Levels

Website/ Further Information /

Sports Leader / Lead- Mr A Hart
Description of Activity / Students learn the importance of communication and organisation with regards to sports leadership. Students are taught mini games and experience leading others within the group with the option of going into the local primary school and leading years 3 and 4 students.
Who would be suitable? / Anyone interested in sport or teaching or who would like to further enhance their communication and organisational skills.
What is the value of the activity? / A valuable addition to your personal statement and/or CV and an activity that benefits others.
Website/ Further Information / See Mr Hart for further information
Climbing / Lead- Mr A Hart
Description of Activity / Students have access to the bouldering section of the Warehouse Climbing Centre in Gloucester. They are independent when they are there but we encourage them to challenge themselves through the variety of different routes they can attempt.
Who would be suitable? / Students they may have climbing experience or want to try something new off site.
What is the value of the activity? / Challenge and fitness
Website/ Further Information / For further information see Mr Hart or look at the Warehouse website
First Aid / Lead-
Description of Activity / Taught by an external qualified first aider the course covers basic first aid and leads to a certification of attendance.
Who would be suitable? / Anyone who feels first aid is an important life skill
What is the value of the activity? / This enrichment offers students:
  • Increased confidence when working outside your comfort zone.
  • A valuable skill to write on your CV or UCAS form.
  • Gain new employability skills. For example, the ability to be a first aider in the workplace.
  • An essential life skill – you could save someone’s life!
  • Develop effective communication skills.
  • Develop teamwork skills.

Website/ Further Information / For further information see Mr Hart
Netball / Lead- Miss Okell/ Mrs Williams
Description of Activity / Represent the school in competitive fixtures across the county. It’s great for keeping fit and getting to know others in your year group and others in year 13. Learn new skills or develop existing ones in a fun and friendly environment. Netball kit provided.
Who would be suitable? / Any ability welcome from beginner to experienced player
What is the value of the activity? / Shows commitment and dedication to it will enhance your CV/Personal statements.
Provides an opportunity for you to represent the Crypt School and make a positive contribution.
Website/ Further Information / See Miss Okell
Chess/ Board Games / Lead- Mr Cobb
Description of Activity / Students come to compete in the ultimate mental sport: chess, a challenge of strategic thinking and sheer cerebral stamina.
There is also a range of board games to allow students to enjoy less duelistic games and more relaxed collaborative play, general knowledge games and other strategic classics.
Who would be suitable? /
  • Students who want to test themselves, who enjoy competing against each other and seek to improve their game;
  • students who wish to learn how to play chess
  • students who wish to relieve stress through doing something completely different;
  • cerebral heavy-hitters who need their mental metal stretched, forged and honed in the heat of battle on the chessboard.

What is the value of the activity? /
  • You could show that you are a rounded, disciplined individual who has good gamesmanship and enjoys challenge and competition.
  • You would possibly impress others (including employers/universities) as many people have a basic grasp of chess and find it (rightly or wrongly) intimidating and daunting, the preserve of “clever” people.
  • There is also an important social and interpersonal dimension to game playing, as well as an ability to pass time together in a pleasant way that is arguable neglected in our digital age.

Website/ Further Information / There is a plethora of websites offering advice and techniques, tactics, rules, etc.
Young Enterprise / Lead- Mrs P Kirkpatrick
Description of Activity / Students run a real company for year.
Sell shares, create a product, market it and carry out the necessary accounts.
Who would be suitable? / Well organised and resilient students with an interest on product design, Business management or finance.
What is the value of the activity? / Independent research carried out by Kingston University shows that Young Enterprise programmes help increase both employability skills and academic attainment among young people. Young people develop key skills they need not only for the world of work but also for day to day life including:
•An understanding of how business works
•The ability to work in a team
•Improved communication skills
•Increased enthusiasm and self-confidence
•Willingness to take responsibility and show initiative
•Time management
•Effective work and social skills
Website/ Further Information /
F1 / Lead- Mr K Downes
Description of Activity / F1 in Schools is an all-encompassing and thoroughly rewarding student run project, in which a team of 6 design and manufacture their own miniature Formula 1 car, reaching speeds of up to 45mph! The project is run as a professional business, running our own sponsorship, marketing, and testing.
Who would be suitable? / Anybody and everybody is welcome, particularly those with an interest in DT, physics, entrepreneurship, graphic design, and web development – or just anybody looking for a nice challenge!
What is the value of the activity? / Over the course of the year you’ll have an amazing experience to last a life time by competing at a regional level, which can then lead on to both national and international competitions. You will also develop a wide range of valuable skills like teamwork, presentation skills, and problem solving. F1 in Schools is also an ideal project to mention in your personal statement or CV, and can be talked about in length in interview to make you stand out from the crowd.
Website/ Further Information /
Email Jude Hunt for more information –
Future Learn / Lead- Mr R Biggs
Description of Activity / Futurelearn is a website with numerous free online courses. The object is to research, explore and learn about subjects that you are passionate about.
Who would be suitable? / Anyone who enjoys the challenge of independently mastering a new subject and has a passion for learning
What is the value of the activity? / Develop love of learning
Boost CV
Independent learning
Website/ Further Information / Go to futurelearn.com
Robotics / Lead- Mr K Downes/ Mrs S Green
Description of Activity / This is a STEM 30-hr project in which students research a robotics and STEM challenge and present it to the local community. During the projects students will have the opportunity to develop their team-working and presentation skills, be able to research projects of their own interests and enjoy some hands-on and creative engineering.
Students will submit a report to get a Silver CREST award, which is recognised by UCAS.
Who would be suitable? / Anyone with an interest in STEM and who wants to make things happen. No prior experience necessary.
What is the value of the activity? / Students will submit their project to be accredited with a Silver CREST award, which is respected by UCAS and employers
Website/ Further Information / See Mrs Green and Mr Downes
Yoga / Mrs Bricknell
Description of Activity / Yoga for beginners. Learn main positions and have fun whilst improving your mental and physical health.
Who would be suitable? / Everyone
What is the value of the activity? / Yoga improves your physical and mental health.
•Improves your flexibility.
•Builds muscle strength.
•Perfects your posture.
•Prevents cartilage and joint breakdown.
•Protects your spine.
•Betters your bone health.
•Increases your blood flow.
•Drains your lymphs and boosts immunity
Website/ Further Information / See Mrs Kirkpatrick
EPQ / Lead- Mrs E Gasan
Description of Activity / The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is a qualification consisting of an independent research project. Students will complete a 5000 word essay, presentation and production log. The area of independent student is free choice (although students are assigned a mentor for guidance).
Who would be suitable? /
  • Independent learners – the qualification is not teacher led
  • Conscientious students who are willing to continuously work on the project aside their other studies
  • Students who are willing to deliver a presentation
  • Students with good essay writing skills
  • Students who are wishing to add to their UCAS applications/CVs
Students who are ready to take the challenge of degree style work
What is the value of the activity? /
  • The qualification is worth UCAS points (equivalent to an AS level) and can bolster university applications or give an area of discussion at interview.
  • Some universities alter their entry requirements if they have an EPQ in addition to their A-levels (please check with universities directly) or look an EPQ students more favourably.
  • Universities requested such a qualification as they wanted young people to have opportunities to hone research and independent skills before undergraduate study. The EPQ is therefore respected by universities.
  • The EPQ replicates degree dissertations and focuses on research skills
  • The area of topic is free choice so students can choose to do something they enjoy, linked to their future aspirations or study something entirely new.

Website/ Further Information /

Dance / Lead- Miss A Collard
Description of Activity / A range of different dance options are available, depending on the interests and requests of the group.
Classes generally follow the Ballet Fitness class model. We work on exercises to strengthen the core and legs, as well as activities to boost cardio-vascular fitness.
We can also use class time to develop longer routines that can be showcased in assemblies or at other school events.
Classes could include the following types of dance: Jazz, Ballet, Street, Tap or Zumba.
Who would be suitable? / Both boys and girls are welcome. All levels of dancing ability can be catered for, whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer. Anyone who likes fast paced activities or enjoys trying something new should come along!
What is the value of the activity? / Dance is a great way to keep fit. It also shows universities and employers that you are confident and are not afraid to try something new.
Website/ Further Information / Any further questions please see Miss Collard
Drive IQ / Lead- Mr R Biggs
Description of Activity / An opportunity to complete an online course helping develop your skills and awareness towards taking your driving test.
Who would be suitable? / Any student keen to develop new skills
What is the value of the activity? / Challenge
Online course
Develop new skills
Website/ Further Information / See Mr Biggs
Work Shadow / Lead- Mrs Price
Description of Activity / As part of work shadowing, you will be finding and attending a work experience placement every week during enrichment (Wednesday afternoon). You will be responsible for finding your own placement. We will need a letter from the employer as well as a letter from your parent/ Guardian giving you permission to carry out the shadowing.
Who would be suitable? / This would be suitable for any hard working and motivated students that want to enhance their CV and UCAS application. You must also punctual and committed to attending your placement every week.
What is the value of the activity? / Work experience can enhance your CV, UCAS application and also strengthen key skills and employability. Previous students have commented on how their placement has improved teamwork, communication skills and confidence, and has also helped them reach decisions about the direction of their future career.
Website/ Further Information / For further information see Mr Biggs or Mrs Price
Departmental Mentoring / Lead- Mr R Biggs
Description of Activity / As part of mentoring, you will be finding and attending aplacement with a department every week during enrichment (Wednesday afternoon). You will be responsible for finding your own placement and organising this with the relevant teacher. We will need an email from the relevant teacher confirming that you will be with them on a Wednesday afternoon.