Co-Curricular Clubs and Societies
At Churston, learning doesn't stop when the bell rings. Our clubs, societies and enrichment programmes are where interests become passions, friendships deepen, and the person you're becoming takes shape.
We don't see co-curricular life as an optional extra. It's a central part of what Churston offers and what we believe every student deserves. Whether you're drawn to sport, science, music, debate or something you've never tried before, there's a place for you here. Getting involved builds confidence, broadens perspectives, and creates the kind of school experience that students carry with them long after they leave. We aim high in the classroom - and we expect the same curiosity and effort beyond it.
Something for everyone
Every lower school student participates in at least one lunchtime club each week - it's part of how we do things at Churston. From sport to STEM, from drama to community service, the range of what's on offer reflects the breadth of our students' interests and ambitions.
Creative Arts
Explore your creativity through art, design and digital media. From painting to Photoshop, Creative Arts clubs give students the freedom to experiment, make and express themselves.
English
Dive deeper into language, literature and ideas. English clubs build confidence with words - through books, debate and the pleasure of reading for its own sake.
Environment & Sustainability
Take action for our planet. These clubs connect students with the natural world and empower them to lead real, positive change in school and beyond.
Games & Wellbeing
Unwind, connect and recharge. Games & Wellbeing clubs offer a space to relax, have fun and build friendships because balance matters as much as effort.
Humanities & Current Affairs
Question the world around you. These clubs encourage students to look critically at history, politics and the issues shaping our world and to have a voice in the conversation.
Languages
Speak to the world. Language clubs help students build confidence, fluency and cultural understanding - led by older students and language assistants.
Performing Arts
Find your stage. From the orchestra pit to the spotlight, Performing Arts clubs give every student a way to make music, perform and be part of something bigger.
Sport
Get active, compete and push yourself. Sport at Churston is for everyone - whether you're aiming for the first team or just want to enjoy the game.
STEM
Think differently and solve real problems. From coding to chemistry, maths to navigation, our STEM clubs challenge students to apply their learning in new ways.
Whole School House & Charity
Lead, serve and connect. These opportunities put students at the heart of school life. Through student voice, careers, community leadership and the school magazine.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is one of the most recognised and respected young people's programmes in the world - and Churston students take it seriously.
A genuine challenge, a genuine achievement
Churston students take DofE seriously. Every year, an exceptional number of our students from Years 9 to 13 take part, with over 60 students completing their Bronze Award in a single recent cohort. We proudly offer all three progressive levels (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) encouraging students to push their boundaries, build lasting friendships, and earn a mark of achievement that is highly respected by universities and employers alike.
Driving your own development
Because the award is entirely non-competitive, success comes down to personal drive. To complete their sections in Volunteering, Physical, and Skills, students must independently choose and commit to activities outside of curriculum time. Whether they are mentoring younger students, learning a new language, or mastering a sport, DofE empowers our young people to take ownership of their own growth and make a tangible impact on their local community.
Expeditions that expand horizons
The team expedition is often the most memorable part of the DofE journey. Our Bronze teams learn essential navigation and campcraft skills right here in our local area. As students progress to Silver and Gold, the challenges scale up, taking them out to navigate the remote terrains of Dartmoor, Exmoor, and the Cadair Idris mountains in North Wales. Through the inevitable frustrations and triumphs of the trail, students forge lifelong memories and discover the true value of teamwork.
Passions that become purpose
Beyond the curriculum, these four pillars are where friendships deepen, leadership skills are tested, and students discover what truly drives them.
Explore new interests
Try something new. Many students discover a lifelong passion through a club they joined on a whim. We make it easy to explore.
Develop real skills
Leadership, collaboration, creativity, problem-solving - co-curricular activities build skills that no exam can measure, and that every employer and university notices.
Build friendships
Clubs and societies bring together students from different year groups and form the heart of Churston's community. Some of the best friendships here are formed on a pitch, a stage or in a rehearsal room.
Strengthen your CV and character
From Duke of Edinburgh to student leadership, what you do outside lessons says as much about you as your grades. We help students build a record of real achievement.
Discover what you are capable of
DofE has been an integral part of Churston life for over 20 years, with an excellent proportion of our students in Years 9–13 taking part annually. It is a non-competitive, internationally recognised mark of achievement based on personal challenge.
The Levels
Students can progress through Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards.
The Sections
Each award involves completing sections in Volunteering, Physical, and Skills (which must be done outside curriculum time), plus a team Expedition. Gold also includes a Residential section.
The Expeditions
Bronze expeditions take place locally to learn navigation and campcraft. Silver and Gold teams take on the more remote challenges of Exmoor, Dartmoor, and the Cadair Idris mountains in North Wales.
Financial Support
DofE is highly inclusive. Students in receipt of Pupil Premium funding can apply to use it towards their DofE registration and expeditions, and other financial support is available.
