Activities Programme

Academic Support

Pupils can receive academic support in specific subjects from teachers in that department. It may not be their subject teacher, but expert help is available.

Creative Writing

The aim of this activity is to encourage students to express themselves creatively, through a variety of written mediums, in such a way that the ordinary curriculum may not recognise. This will be a chance for students to share and discuss narratives and styles they have experienced from other sources, before adapting them to suit their own method of expression. Each week may also be accompanied by a different stimulus or framework, which can be engaged with in a variety of ways to prompt ideas.

Critical Thinking

Become a sophisticated thinker who is able to analyse, argue and articulate complex ideas with rigour and style. You will complete an online course and receive a certificate when completed.

EAL Listening

EAL listening is designed to give pupils the opportunity to practise for the listening exams, which are needed for IGCSE and IELTS.

EAL Speaking

EAL speaking is an opportunity to develop your English speaking skills through games and discussions, in a supportive environment. It provides additional practise for the speaking sections of the IELTS, IGCSE and other Cambridge English exams.

Economics Society

A chance to explore and discuss current issues in economics, business and global affairs. From September 2021 there will also be the opportunity to enter national competitions such as the Share Trading Student Investor Challenge and the Bank of England’s ‘Bank, Camera, Action’.

Environmental Science

A chance for pupils to explore the science behind climate change, learn about the ways in which science is tackling the problem and how it is affecting people, oceans and nature as a whole. We will discuss the options for the future, activists both local and world-famous, national projects and perhaps even come up with projects of our own. This is a brand new club for us to build and shape together.

Living History Society

The aim of the group is to engage and inspire young people about the past. Our activities are based around a medieval military encampment from the late 14th century. Activities include learning how to shoot an authentic longbow, developing sword combat skills and practicing medieval medicine. We have a range of medieval tents, authentic furniture and camp gear to immerse young people in 14th century life.

Learning for Life

Pupils will have a series of talks based around our new curriculum delivered over the Autumn term. These will vary and may include advice on friendships and relationships, e-safety and healthy lifestyles. Students will have the opportunity to find out and discuss the different aspects of the Learning for Life programme in a safe environment.

Compulsory for Fourth Form pupils. ​

MACE Debating

Develop your argumentative skills participating in debates on a wide variety of current, challenging and contentious topics. You may also be chosen to represent the school in the prestigious national MACE competition where teams compete in a series of debates for the ultimate debating prize.

Maths Competition Club

Primarily aimed at increasing the breadth of mathematics that pupils can experience and master, outside of the curriculum. All pupils are welcome to attend and the activity is tailored each year to those involved. The activity is of particular benefit in preparing: Oxbridge, or other applicants, who need to pass a university maths entrance exam, The Culford School maths teams and individuals who want to enhance their performance in the UKMT individual Maths Challenges, Kangaroo competitions or Olympiads.

Medical Society

An activity where pupils can come and spend time together who are looking at applying to medical or veterinary science careers beyond Sixth Form.

Here they can get support with applications or personal statements and also seek support on the qualifications they may need.

Activities may include interviews or presentations with medical professionals, involvement in lectures or potential trips to relevant events, opportunities to research the latest medical advancements, chances to develop skills such as those for presentation or planning and leading activities within the group.

If pupils are interested they should come and discuss this with Miss Stearn in the biology department to ensure their suitability.

Physics Degree and Olympiad Group

Advanced level and undergraduate-style problem solving for those with aspirations of studying physics or engineering at degree level. We work through Olympiad and Oxbridge entrance questions and university interview technique, culminating in participation in the British Physics Olympiad Senior Challenge (L6) and BPhO Round 1 (U6). Open to Sixth Form and Upper Fifth by invitation or request.

Psychology Society

Psychology is more than an A Level subject - psychology is life and life is psychology! Students choose the topics we discuss and over the past five years we have covered every conceivable aspect of human life (and a few inconceivable ones as well). The proposing students gives a short presentation and then ‘the floor is open’. We also watch films and television programmes that have psychological merit and discuss the content. Show and tell sessions provide the opportunity to learn why certain objects, pictures, films or pieces of music are so important to you.

Scholars (Academic)

This term will include for the scholars the usual, regular Friday Oxbridge-style year group discussion groups with specific scholar tutors, and in addition lunch time Fifth Form curriculum enrichment groups, all involving debate, presentations, current affairs, reading and research with a focus on critical analysis and interpersonal skills. There will also be a number of guest speakers, experts in their fields, delivering seminars about topics such as the Antarctic sea floor, aerospace, psychology of work and pharmaceutical developments, such as vaccines.

We will have a termly scholars' debate and a competitive general knowledge quiz. The Sixth Form scholars will be putting together their Culford Independent Research Projects and presentations, and in addition TED-style talks (which are done in front of their peer group). And of course we are very much looking forward to the Culford Oxbridge Conference in February.

Art Open Studio

This is an opportunity for all pupils that undertake Art for GCSE and A Level to have unlimited access to materials and resources that we have in the Art Department. This allows the pupils to have extended practical time to fulfil all those larger pieces outside their sketchbooks. Sixth Form are issued their own work stations from day one in September, and the rest of the exam year groups are allowed to use this time to specifically use alternative spaces to the main studio such as the ceramic workshop, textiles sewing room and the printing room.

Design & Technology

An opportunity for pupils to complete coursework at GCSE and A Level.

Choreography Club - Performance Group

The choreography club gives pupils on the dance performance programme the opportunity to learn the art of choreography and what is involved in the process of creating a piece of art. The idea is to create a safe and supportive platform to work together, and individually, and create a shared platform to showcase work. The aim is to inspire each other, push you out of your comfort zone and create a space where dancers can develop and share their talent.

Dance Club

Open to dancers teaching them the fundamentals of modern jazz dance whilst developing greater balance, co-ordination, flexibility and strength. After a warm up, pupils will learn a musical theatre inspired routine from West End and Broadway musical hits from contemporary and classic shows. Students can enjoy and learn to adapt to different musical theatre styles ranging from jazz, lyrical and hip hop. The club creates a fun yet challenging environment where pupils can push beyond their limits learning new techniques for sharpening their musicality skills, choreography pick-up, expression and performance.

Devising Drama

This is an activity to focus on the creative aspects of devising drama, perfecting the physical theatre aspects of their work. Pupils should be familiar with and show proven skills in the methods of Frantic Assembly, Gecko and/or ThickSkin to ensure safe participation. Activities include creation of physical work, addition of text, learning to refine and polish performance skills and learning how to direct physical theatre.

Clarinet Quartet (lunchtime)

Clarinet Quartet is a specialist ensemble that caters for our more advanced clarinettists; Grade 5 and above. The ensemble includes the bass clarinet and plays an eclectic mix of music allowing each participant to take on a solo role. Repertoire is often challenging, but always fun, exploring a range of different styles from classical through to jazz.

Hot Club (lunchtime)

Taking inspiration from Reinhardt and Grapelli’s 1930s Hot Club of France, fiddles, guitar and bass perform gypsy jazz standards. All music is learned aurally and performed from memory, and musicians improvise over chord patterns. Our classically trained instrumentalists gain versatility and the opportunity to create in a non-classical style. Performances are dynamic and exciting with a chance for everyone to take the lead.

Jazz Band (lunchtime)

Jazz Band specialises in learning jazz standards from memory with an emphasis on free improvisation. Pupils explore a range of dynamic jazz styles ranging from blues and bebop through to jazz funk and more contemporary idioms. A wide range of instruments are catered for including all woodwind and brass instruments together with electric guitar, bass guitar, drum-kit and keyboards. Pupils should be approximately Grade 5 standard to make the most of this exciting ensemble.

Music Production

Music Production runs weekly through the year and allows pupils to lose themselves in the infinite possibilities of modern music creation, using professional software to either write their own tracks, remix existing songs or compile DJ sets, all of which they might then be able to submit for release. Learning new techniques, and indeed the whole creative process, requires perseverance, imagination and resourcefulness, but is endlessly rewarding.

Music Theory/Aural Practice

This activity concentrates almost exclusively on exam preparation, be it for the new online music theory exams or the aural components of the Associated Board and Trinity music exams. Emphasis is on preparing for the Grade 5 music theory exam and the aural requirements for the higher grades; six and above.

Rock Band

Based in the new recording studio, this is open to all years and the main aim is to promote the forming of rock and pop bands in the school, covering all forms of popular music. Once formed the bands work towards putting material together for a concert or a recording session. Tuition is available from both Mr Williamson (drums) and Mr Tuffs (guitars).

Senior Orchestra

Senior Orchestra involves strings, woodwind, brass and percussion players and caters for pupils from approximately Grade 4 and above. It plays a wide repertoire of music ranging from the classics through to film music and medleys. Recent works performed have included West Side Story, Game of Thrones and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Senior Singers

Senior Choir is a vocal ensemble that specialises in harmony singing and exploring a wide range of repertoire from classical and contemporary a cappella songs to show-tunes and pop classics. No previous choral experience is needed, just a love of singing and a desire to produce high quality performances. This group has performed in a variety of different contexts including lunch-time concerts at St. Edmundsbury Cathedral and more informal occasions such as Roots in the Park.

Senior String Ensemble

Bowed string players perform in our string ensemble, experiencing different genres and styles within classical repertoire for large ensemble. A recent highlight was a performance with senior soloist Edward Hicks performing Grainger/Kreisler’s Molly On The Shore with the string orchestra accompanying.

Wind Band

Wind Band is open to all woodwind, brass and percussion players of approximately Grade 5 and above, with concert performances throughout the year. Repertoire includes a lively mix of show tunes, film music and pop classics, with recent highlights including the soundtrack to Pirates of the Caribbean and a medley of Abba hits.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) is an outstanding program for young people to be involved in which provides so many opportunities for self-development. Each level is increasingly more challenging than the previous one. There is also the opportunity to be a direct entrant to any level, but this would involve slightly longer activities. Each level requires participants to organise and attend three activities for a number of months, volunteering , physical and a skill. There are also two expeditions to plan and attend in various areas throughout the UK.

Bronze Award - Lower Fifth

Expeditions are for two days and conducted in Suffolk

Silver Award – Upper Fifth

Expeditions are for three days and conducted in the Peak District

Gold Award – Lower Sixth

Expeditions are for four days and conducted in the Peak District and Snowdonia. A residential course is also required.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (Silver & Gold) Volunteering

DofE Gold and Silver Award participants are able to volunteer to support activities at the Prep School. The volunteering will involve support to Prep School activities like Pioneer Club (outdoor education), sports (assistant coaching), clubs and academic support (reading) etc. There will also be the opportunity to volunteer in the Prep School boarding house, helping with various activities.

CCF

For pupils from all year groups, activities include team building, leadership skills as well as military training for Army and RAF cadets, which can lead to promotion and competitions. The CCF activity includes at least two weekends a year and a week long summer camp run by a military training team. A great opportunity for pupils to challenge themselves in a safe environment.

Mountain Biking

Available for pupils in the Sixth Form who are confident bike riders. Pupils will go to the Thetford MTB tracks at High Lodge, where bikes and helmets will be provided by Bike Art.

This sport requires endurance, core strength and balance, bike handling skills, and self-reliance. Advanced riders pursue both steep technical descents and high incline climbs, and we hope to get away to participate in regional competitions and at other exciting venues as the riders become more confident and capable.

Paddle Sport

Pupils, who are confident swimmers, will visit Lackford Lakes (St Edmundsbury Sailing and Canoeing Association) for the weekly training sessions, where vessels and buoyancy aids will be provided by the Club.

Paddle sport covers a large rage of water based activities that use a paddle. The major activities we hope to introduce participants to are:

Kayaking (sea and inland); canoeing; white water rafting; stand up paddleboard and dragon boating.

Once pupils are competent we hope to offer expeditions like canoeing river trips and sea kayaking tours, as well as recreational white water rafting and kayaking trips nationally.

Aerobics/Pilates

For all year groups. This activity will help improve core strength, flexibility and posture.

Basketball

Coached basketball session delivered by our qualified basketball coaches Miss Hansell and Mr Green.

U15/U18 Cricket Academy

Winter net squad training for boys and girls, technical and tactical training from our expert cricket coaches.

U15 Football Academy

Team training session for pupils enrolled in the Culford football programme. Pupils will work on all aspects of football development with our Head of Football, Mr Land. Pupils in these sessions will have priority in representing the school in competitive football fixtures. Pupils enrolled in two football academy sessions get free access to the Puma Pathway coaching sessions on Monday evenings.

U18 Football Academy

Team training session for pupils enrolled in the Culford football programme. Pupils will work on all aspects of football development with our Head of Football, Mr Land. Pupils in these sessions will have priority in representing the school in competitive football fixtures and may also have access to training and matches with West Suffolk College if their playing level is high enough.

Fitness

Group fitness session outside for all Senior School year groups delivered by one of our qualified gym instructors.

Football

A chance to play a social football match with your friends, available for those pupils who are not selected to attend the junior team sport activity as part of their team training. Open to boys and girls.

Futsal

Invitational session in the sports hall for pupils on the Culford football programme. Futsal is played using small goals and a small, heavy ball to emphasise skill development.

Golf

Beginners: The purpose of this activity is to introduce pupils to the game and move those who are keen and demonstrate the required skills on to the golf course as soon as possible. Using the schools on-site practice facilities, instruction will be given to help pupils develop skills such as putting, chipping and the full swing. No equipment is required for this session.

Experienced: The activity will take place at Bury St. Edmunds Golf Range for the first half term where more instruction will be given to develop techniques and enhance the skills required to complete nine holes of golf. During the second half term, the session will return to Flempton Golf Club where pupils will apply these skills on the course and learn the required strategies, rules and etiquette required to be able to compete at junior club level.

Junior Team Sport

Junior Sport - compulsory for all A team players in Fourth Form and Lower Fifth. If guidelines allow, Fourth Form v Lower Fifth will play a series of matches to see which year group takes the title.

Football is also available for those who are not selected to play in the A team.

Senior Sport

A team training session for 1s and 2nd team players, as well as those who just want to play more and keep fit. The sport varies depending on the term.

Senior Hockey Academy

Hockey academy training session delivered by our elite hockey coaches.

Swimming

Swimming for all years and abilities. Improve your strokes and skills whilst gaining a full body workout.

Archery

A chance for pupils to try out archery and develop their skills under the supervision of a fully qualified instructor. Pupils will learn Barebow archery which is a stripped-down form of modern archery that features no sights, no stabiliser, no clicker and no markings on the bow to help you aim. Once they have mastered Barebow archery it is our hope that they can then be confident to have a go at other types of archery.

Book Club

A more traditional book club where we will all choose a book or a genre to read and then discuss. A great way to find something new to read or to get some encouragement to read outside of your comfort zone.

Digital Media: Video Making

Develop new digital media skills! In this club you will be introduced to working with cameras and editing software to produce your own video content.

Horse Riding - Extra Cost

As a sport, riding improves listening, reflexes, problem solving and coordination. It is brilliant for developing independence. Being around the beautiful horses at Barrow Hall Stables (BHS/ABRS) is also brilliant for mental health. Horses have been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety, developing self confidence and resolving issues of low self-esteem.

Malawi

Despite not being able to visit Malawi in Summer 2021 we continue to fundraise and learn about this beautiful country. It’s a reminder as to how our own struggles are sometimes small compared to those less fortunate than ourselves. There is also so much joy that comes from African communities, as is so evident in our projects.

PADI Scuba Training

Mr Arbuthnot is PADI Scuba Instructor and is able to train and qualify pupils as scuba divers so they are able to go diving anywhere in the world. The activity at Culford means pupils will have completed all their pool, theory work and examinations so that they can dive on the first day of a trip rather than having to do pool and classwork on their first few days in the resort.

VEX Robotics

Robotics Club requires pupils to be able to design and build a robot to perform specific tasks for the VEX Robotics Competitions. You will need to show plenty or perseverance, patience and imagination to overcome the obstacles which always pop up when designing and building a robot. One area of the competition you may be interested in, is the autonomous round. We need pupils who are able to programme the robot with specific code, so that it can carry out specific functions autonomously. Please come along if you would like a challenge!