The Stretch and Challenge programme is designed for students in Years 6 to 13, aiming to develop essential skills and better prepare them for the future.
Through a variety of activities, such as competitions, lectures, workshops, courses, and trips, students broaden their experiences and gain accredited qualifications that extend beyond the typical academic curriculum.
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The programme has three core aims:
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“The Stretch and Challenge programme has allowed me to freely explore different courses and professions outside of class, helping me discover my university aspirations and general interests."
Year 12, QE College student
Academic Competitions
Students can participate in both internal and external competitions to challenge themselves academically.
Foundation Essay CompetitionA tradition at Queen Ethelburga’s for over 100 years, the Foundation Essay Competition is open to Key Stage 5 students and was extended to Key Stage 4 in 2021. The prestigious competition begins in the Autumn term. Students are given a choice of essay titles on a diverse range of themes reflecting current issues. Once the winners' names are announced, they are immortalised on our award boards in the Armorial Hall. |
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External Competitions
Students frequently participate in national and international competitions like the Mathematics Challenge (Junior, Intermediate and Senior levels), Science Olympiads, Art and Design contests, and essay competitions, among others. Popular areas also include Ethics, Public Speaking, Debating, Enterprise, and Philosophy.
Super-Curricular Activities
‘Super-curricular’ means activities or societies that further enhance students’ subject knowledge and skills. The options are available within and outside of the Collegiate’s timetabled day.
Options Within the Curriculum
During school hours, students attending King’s Magna, QE Faculty, or QE College (Key Stage 5 only) select 1 to 2 hours of super-curricular activities, covering a range of academic, creative, and sports skills.
“I have really enjoyed super-curricular lessons. I have been able to learn more in areas that interest me beyond my GCSE subjects.”
Year 11, QE Faculty student
| King's Magna (Years 6 to 9) |
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And more, including trialling QE Faculty’s Performance Sports Programme. |
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Key Stage 4 (Faculty Only) |
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| Key Stage 5 (College and Faculty) |
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Activities include: Super-Curricular Outside School Hours
After-school super-curricular activities are embedded within our extensive enrichment programme.
Options include student-led societies such as General Talk Society, Debating, Chess, and upcoming clubs like Coding, Law, and Model United Nations. Other options include:
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Guest Speakers and WorkshopsStudents attend guest speaker talks and workshops that cover topics such as careers, wellbeing, public speaking, university preparation, and life skills like financial management and cultural awareness. |
Roles of ResponsibilityStudents can apply for a role of responsibility within their school to play a key part in shaping our school environment. Roles range from formal roles of responsibility to supporting Queen Ethelburga’s in a volunteering capacity, such as charity work or outreach days. Students can also apply to be on one of the three councils: School Council, the Boarding Council or the Arts Council. |
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External Nationally Recognised CoursesStudents can even gain externally recognised qualifications to improve their university applications and CVs.
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