Diverse Range of Activities
Thursday Opps break down traditional year group barriers. This dedicated time allows students from different years to come together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Whether collaborating on a project or sharing experiences, the cross-year interaction enriches the social fabric of our Senior School. Students also rotate their Opps choices three times a year, giving them ample opportunity to try their hand at something new and allow students to access the Opps they’re interested in without them being filled beyond capacity.
The offerings under Thursday Opportunities are as diverse as our student body. From art workshops and coding classes to outdoor adventures and community service projects, the options available to students are vast. This breadth of activities ensures that every student can find something that resonates with their passions, encouraging a spirit of curiosity and open-mindedness.
Examples of Thursday Opps choices:
| Artistic Expressions |
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| Students can unleash their artistic flair with Opps like painting, sculpture, and digital art workshops. Those who take artistic Opportunities explore different mediums under the guidance of experienced instructors. |
| Coding and Technology Exploration |
| For the tech enthusiasts, Thursday Opps offer coding classes and technology exploration. From coding languages to Robotics, students can delve into the exciting realms of digital innovation. Our Robotics team compete up and down the country, so the lengths that your chosen Opportunity can take you are endless. |
| Outdoor Adventures |
| Some students choose to embrace the great outdoors with activities like hiking, camping, and environmental exploration. Go Karting is also incredibly popular with our students. Students partaking in these Opportunities develop teamwork, leadership, and survival skills while getting outdoors. |
| Community Service Projects and Entrepreneurship |
| Other students choose to dedicate their time in Thursday Opportunities to making a positive impact on the community by participating in community service or exploring startup concepts. Students are responsible for planning in initiatives that address local needs and contribute to the well-being of others. Supported by members of faculty, students have set up enterprises such as escape rooms to raise money for local and national charities. |
| Performing Arts Workshops |
| Always a popular choice at St Chris, performing arts workshops allow students to immerse themselves in the world of performing arts. From drama to dancing and music, these Opportunities provide a stage for self-expression and honing performing skills. |
| Language Learning Sessions |
| Historically, students have taken part in Languages options, allowing them to learn important new skills once a week outside of their core curriculum. Students work with our languages department to learn a new language or deepen proficiency in an existing one. |
| Scientific Explorations |
| For the curious minds, we offer a Science Opportunity to offer a hands-on approach to various scientific disciplines. Students partaking in these Opps conduct experiments, engage in research, and ignite a passion for discovery. |
| Wellness and Mindfulness Practices |
| Prioritize mental and physical well-being with Opps centred around wellness and mindfulness. Yoga sessions, meditation, and stress management workshops contribute to a balanced lifestyle. |
| Culinary Arts and Cooking Classes |
| Try your hand at making cinnamon and raisin bagels or master ten easy meals to make at university. Our Cooking Opps classes allow students to unleash culinary creativity while developing practical culinary skills. |
Tailored Learning Experience
Unlike conventional timetables, Thursday Opps break away from the norm. Students have the freedom to choose from a variety of activities, ensuring a tailored learning experience that aligns with their individual interests and aspirations. This not only adds excitement to the school week but also fosters a sense of ownership over one's education.
Our Opportunities programme is constantly developing depending on the Student Voice and demand, so while we try to keep up with the changes, the list above may not be an entirely accurate reflection of our current offering!
Company Adviser Support
In the Senior School, every student is assigned a Company Adviser who stays with them throughout the year. This personal connection extends to Thursday Opps, where students can engage in meaningful conversations with their advisers, seeking guidance on their chosen activities. This personalized support enhances the overall experience, ensuring that students feel seen and supported in their exploration.
Fostering Independence and Responsibility
As students progress through the Senior School and Sixth Form, Thursday Opps become a platform for fostering independence.
The small class sizes of many of these Opps create an environment where there are no places to hide, encouraging active engagement and accountability. Students learn to manage their time effectively, a skill that transcends the classroom and prepares them for the challenges beyond school.
