Following the introduction of the Department for Education's Enrichment Benchmarks in June, Sir Harry Smith Sixth Form has launched its exciting new enrichment programme, SWADSE (Spend Wednesday Afternoon Doing Something Else).
This week saw all Sixth Form students participate in their first enrichment session, and the programme has already proven to be a tremendous success. Students have embraced a diverse range of opportunities designed to broaden their experiences, develop new skills, and support their personal growth beyond the classroom.
Among the many activities on offer, ten students are taking part in outdoor and adventurous experiences at Ferry Meadows. These sessions include canoeing, raft building, rock climbing, archery, and paddleboarding, providing valuable opportunities for teamwork, resilience, and leadership development.
Within school, students can choose from a variety of enrichment activities including recreational sport, arts and crafts, crocheting, and volunteering opportunities. Many students are supporting younger learners by assisting in Key Stage 3 lessons, volunteering in the school library, or contributing to the Aspire Learning Hub.
We are also delighted to be strengthening our links with the local community through partnerships with local primary schools and Hermitage Care Home. These experiences enable students to make meaningful contributions to their community while developing the confidence, communication skills, and sense of social responsibility that will serve them throughout their lives.
At Sir Harry Smith Sixth Form, we firmly believe that enrichment experiences are an essential part of a well-rounded education. Through participation in these activities, students gain valuable employability skills, build confidence, develop leadership qualities, and strengthen their university, apprenticeship, and employment applications.
Working Together for Our Young People
As we continue to expand our enrichment offer, we are eager to forge new partnerships with local businesses, charities, community groups, and individuals who are passionate about supporting young people.
Whether you could offer work-related experiences, volunteering opportunities, guest speakers, mentoring, practical workshops, or community projects, your support could have a lasting impact on the aspirations and future success of our students. By working together, we can help young people develop the skills, experiences, and connections they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
We are proud to be part of such a supportive community and believe that the greatest opportunities for our students come when schools, organisations, and local residents work in partnership. If you would like to become involved in our growing enrichment programme, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Together, we can inspire ambition, broaden horizons, and create life-changing opportunities for the next generation.
For more information or to discuss potential partnership opportunities, please contact Sir Harry Smith Sixth Form sixthform@sirharrysmith.com