Solihull's Co-curricular Aims

The academic programme is clearly central to the life of the school.  However, in many ways, it is just as important for pupils to become engaged in the wide range of other activities that take place.  As part of the co-curricular programme at Solihull we aim to provide as varied a life beyond lessons as we can, so that our pupils not only have the pleasure of activity when they are young, but also find and develop essential skills which will form a vital part of their adult lives. 

The co-curricular programme at Solihull is rich and diverse and enables pupils to explore their potential and find interests in areas new to them.  To help manage the co-curricular programme in the Senior School we organise activities into categories;  

• Academic Enrichment 

• Community Relations 

• Music 

• Outdoor Education 

• Performing Arts (Dance & Drama) 

• Sport

These different elements help to form a robust and vibrant co-curricular world that pupils are able to explore. Reinforced in all of these activities is the view that teamwork and working with others is a key life skill and pupils are encouraged to share experiences and learn how to get the best out of each other. From playing in the school orchestra, to taking part in a sports fixture and from completing Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award, to working backstage in the Lower School play; all require teamwork and cooperation. These efforts are often recognised in the weekly ‘Team of the Week’ award given in whole school assembly.  Pupils are encouraged to be committed and reliable members of their chosen co-curricular areas. Working towards a final outcome, whether that be a project, performance or fixture, is an important process and pupils learn to balance their time and expectations. Learning to then deal with the outcomes is also a vital skill.  Winning is not everything; however being flexible and grounded, and learning from experiences is. Being front footed and learning how to motivate, engage and lead others is also a vital life skill. Employers rank leadership and communication skills as one of the key areas that they are looking for in school-leavers and graduates. The co-curricular programme aims to provide opportunities for pupils to develop key leadership skills, and to work with their peers as well as those from other year groups and staff.  

The co-curricular programme aims to be inclusive and to give all pupils the opportunity to take part in such activities and to foster some progression, but ultimately ensure that the pupils enjoy the experience. This may lead to an area of excellence and/or interest that stays with them well beyond leaving school. As part of the co-curricular programme we aim to instil a love of learning and a sense of curiosity to discover new ideas and concepts. This could be a love of the outdoors, to a passion for drama, or learning a new skill in sport. Pupils at Solihull should see their co-curricular activities as joyous, and something that they love taking part in. Pupils should leave Solihull having enjoyed their experiences, taking with them a lifelong passion for something outside the classroom. 

The tabs on the right provide further information for each of the Big 6 co-curricular activities at Solihull and the link below details Senior School clubs and activities for 2024 - 2025.