Student Clubs and School Societies at OLA
One of the beautiful things about OLA is that, because it is a small school, all of our students get the chance to find confidence-developing activities and find a place where they truly belong. Whether they are interested in sports, the arts, academic competitions, or service, there are opportunities for each student to join in and excel. Student engagement is important to OLA, and we strive to offer a wide variety of opportunities for students to try new things and build their skills, as they develop not only into strong students, but also into well-rounded individuals.
Why Clubs and Societies Matter
Joining a club or society is important for students, because these kinds of extracurricular activities provide benefits that extend well beyond the classroom. When students engage in activities that interest them, they have the opportunity to explore new interests, develop essential life skills, and form lifelong friendships. Engaging in activities such as academic clubs, sports, art, music, and performing arts helps students build self-confidence and resilience by challenging them to step outside their comfort zones. These experiences encourage teamwork, communication, and leadership, which are vital skills for personal and professional success later in life. In addition to social and emotional growth, students who are engaged this way grow in terms of academic performance. They often develop better time management skills, learning to prioritise and manage their time effectively, which will serve them well not only in school, but also later in life. Participating in clubs and societies and playing on sports teams strengthens a student’s applications for jobs or university, because this participation indicates that they are well-rounded individuals with initiative and dedication. Many universities and employers value candidates who have shown commitment and leadership outside of their academic achievements. Additionally, these activities offer a healthy outlet for stress and provide a sense of belonging, particularly for those who may struggle in more traditional academic settings. They allow students to pursue passions, gain new perspectives, and develop a broader sense of identity.
Co-Curricular Opportunities at OLA
At OLA, we present students with a wide array of opportunities to pursue their interests, develop new skills, or simply enjoy themselves outside of the classroom. Our co-curricular programme is called OLA Sphere, and it gives all of our students the chance to expand their sphere of learning and engage in things they enjoy as they begin to realise their potential. Far more than just an “add-on” to opt into, OLA Sphere is part of our curriculum. Sport, foreign languages, music, art, and drama are all included in our co-curricular menu, and we look at these opportunities as contributing to the education of the whole person.
In the Lower School, there is a wide and ever-changing choice, and students are given the opportunity to sample a variety of clubs and activities. The clubs change each term, to give students the opportunity to experience a diverse mix of activities.
As pupils transition to a Senior School in Year 7, it can be a little bit overwhelming. Joining a club or engaging in new activities is a wonderful way for pupils to meet people who share their interests, and form lasting friendships. Students in Year 11 and the Sixth Form can get involved in the clubs for younger pupils, helping to organise and run them. In the Senior School, clubs typically take place during lunch breaks and after school, and activities change with each new term.
Additional Senior School Opportunities
In addition to sports, pupils in our Senior School have additional opportunities to connect, engage, and pursue their passions. Many of our pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, striving to attain high standards of achievement as they serve their communities and have grand adventures. The Senior School Council provides another opportunity to make a difference, meeting each half term to discuss topical issues affecting our school and make their voices heard.
Your Child Will Find a Place to Belong at OLA
In the intimate environment of a small, inclusive school, it is easy for children to find a place where they fit. Our Lady’s Abingdon School is a small, Catholic, independent day school for pupils between the ages of 7 and 18. Nurturing qualities in our students that include wisdom, the value of learning, independent thinking, self-worth, and care for others, we strive to help them aspire to values like integrity, compassion, openness, forgiveness, and courage. Embracing our rich Catholic Christian heritage, we promote a family community that helps children embark on a journey towards lifelong success. Having been supported by the Sisters resident in Abingdon until very recently, we still aspire to their ethos of integrity and warmth, and we accept pupils from diverse backgrounds, both faith and non-faith. We welcome all students and believe that the co-educational environment works to empower our pupils to be confident, articular young people, ready to make a difference in the world. To learn more, visit our campus, call 01235 524658, or contact us through our website.