S. Anselm’s aims to provide children with the best possible start in life, both academically and socially, and prides itself on the variety of opportunities given to its pupils. As well as an emphasis on the teaching of Sports and Games the school provides an Extra Curricular activity programme that hopes to broaden pupils’ horizons in every area of their school life.
Accordingly, our Extras programme has a wide range of activities that children can enjoy in a relaxed and friendly environment. Every possible area for a child’s development is considered ranging from academic based extras (such as revision skills for Year 8), to more social ones that encourage communication skills (such as Gardening). We also provide non-curricular sports such as Mountain Biking and Ju-jitsu for those children wishing to participate in a more active option.
The programme varies from term to term with new Extras aiming to be introduced regularly.
Autumn Term 2011
NEW: Aqua Games – Born2Move (Session B)
A fantastic way to enjoy some time in the school swimming pool whilst competing in fun water-based games with a qualified instructor from popular local fitness company Born2Move. This Extra, which is available for all pupils in Year 5 and above, promises to let participants exercise and improve their swimming whilst still having a great time.
NEW: Hockey Coaching – Mr D. Brock (Session A)
A great opportunity for boys in Years 6 to 8 to get some serious pre-season training in with our resident hockey coach; Mr Brock (who has previously coached the England side at an international level) achieved remarkable things with our team Under 11 ‘A’ team last year when they reached the National IAPS finals. Hopefully this year they can be just as successful, if not even more so, but these successes only come through hard work and good preparation!
NEW: Multisports – Born2Move (Session A)
Another great new Extra from Born2Move specifically geared towards pupils in Years 3 to 6, Multisports aims to introduce attendees to a wide variety of competitive indoor sports in a similar way to last terms Mini-Olympics, although with a greater emphasis on teams instead of individual achievements.
NEW: Rock School – Mr D. Eaton / Mr J. Weller (Session A)
Following on from the success of the Rock Band Extra this term sees a new venture ‘Rock School’ forming under the guidance of Mr Weller and Mr Eaton. The aim is to allow all musicians and singers in Years 6 to 8 access to some of the popular music around at the moment. With bands in the charts such as Mumford & Sons and Florence & the Machine regularly using classical instruments (such as the cello, double bass and harp to name but a few) as well as having large backing choirs this informal ensemble is hoping to bridge the gap between rock and classical styles in what is hoped will be an exciting and rewarding experience. We will also be trying to develop listening skills and the idea of a ‘paper-free’ ensemble is one that both Mr Eaton & Mr Weller would like to aspire to! Numbers are not limited to 10 in this Extra and any pupils in Year 6 or above currently having instrumental lessons or are part of the choirs are welcome to sign up.
NEW: SA Bloggers– Mrs D. Young / Mr A. Parry (Session A Snrs; Session B Jrs)
Mrs Young (Head of ICT) has decided that the next step for pupils ICT development is that each year group should have their own Blog. This Extra allows groups of pupils to design and post work to the internet – beginning in Year 3 and going all the way through to Year 8. With two different sessions running according to different ages this promises to be a great chance for children to hone their ICT skills as well as learning extremely valuable new ones. Unfortunately, due to numbers, this is only open to pupils who signed up last term.
RETURNING: Computer Game Development – Mr D. Eaton (Session B)
This Extra allows pupils to step through the last twenty five years of computer games and introduces them to how games have changed and developed with technology. Each session will consist of looking at a specific console system, its advantages and disadvantages, and pupils will be expected to build up a ‘portfolio’ of the different systems through their own research with technological facts, stats and information. Once this is completed then the all important testing will begin – giving individuals to discover (potentially for the first time) Space Invaders, Sonic, Mario and many of the all-time classic computer games.
RETURNING: Drama Scholarship Tuition – Mrs H. Hunter (Session B)
Aimed at all senior thespians, this Extra aims to let pupils practice their Performing Arts skills in readiness for any potential forthcoming scholarships in a small group setting.
RETURNING: Exploring Culture – Mrs S. Taylor (Session A)
This extra is open to all pupils from Years 5 – 8 over two different sessions. We shall broaden our horizons by studying the Arts: Painters, Composers, Musicians, Shakespeare, Film Directors and other areas suggested by the pupils. We shall also look at different European cultures and how learning about other countries can enrich our lives. Pupils will create PowerPoint presentations for the group, so enhancing their public speaking skills, and we shall visit local places of interest such as Haddon Hall and The Old House Museum in Bakewell.
RETURNING: Film Club – Mr J. Carr (Extended Extra)
Continuing in a similar vein to previous club’s run by Mrs Lings and Mr Weller this senior Extra hopes to educate pupils on some of the classic cinematography of the last few decades. Our new Head of English, Mr Carr, is very knowledgeable on the subject of films and looks forward to sharing his enthusiasm with attendees in this extended Extra. Please note that Film Club runs throughout both Session A and B of the Extras programme.
RETURNING: Girls’ Club – Mrs H. Lings & Mrs C. Price (Session A)
Do you like crafts? Do you like to learn new skills in a relaxed environment? This Extra is aimed at girls in Years 3 to 6 to have a relaxing session making things, taking part in interesting and fun activities and potentially even having the odd trip out!
RETURNING: Junior Play – Mrs H. Hunter (Session A)
Following on from the success of last year’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’ production this Extra is being established to in preparation for the Junior production being put on at the end of the Autumn term. Pupils will be auditioning during the first Thursday back, and must sign up for other Extras first (but please indicate an interest by ticking the relevant box on the Extras return form); if they are successful then they will be transferred from their original Extra into the Junior play after auditions have been completed.
RETURNING: ‘On the Buzzer’ – Mr J. Weller (Session B)
An exciting Extra for pupils in Years 5 and 6 wishing to use their general knowledge to good effect, or to learn even more! This Extra will be focussed towards building a school quiz team to take to the Uppingham ‘On the Buzzer’ quiz in late November but will also allow pupils to expand their own general knowledge and understanding of the world through fun weekly activities.
RETURNING: Rugby Sevens – Born2Move (Session B)
This term sees the return of the ever-popular Rugby Seven’s Extra that is to be run by locally based fitness company Born2Move who have been involved for some time now with the school and its pre-season Rugby coaching. Open to Senior Boys this fast paced and high energy Extra is there not just for those who just can’t get enough of their Rugby but also for those wishing to have a bit change from standard matches!
Archives – Mr D. Eaton (Friday break)
An essential Extra for any budding Historians out there and a real chance for pupils to have their name recorded forever in the history of our school. Both Junior & Senior pupils are given the chance to explore the newly created School Archives and delve into S. Anselm’s past; any findings are then to be written up and will hopefully be published on the Archives section of the schools new website. This Extra will run on a Friday break for this term and any pupils signing up will be expected to attend on a regular basis). Places are limited to 8.
Art Portfolio – Mrs J. Pryor (Sessions A & B)
This is an opportunity for potential future scholars in Years 5 to 8 to build up a portfolio of work. Please note that this is for pupils who are seriously considering art scholarships and must be cleared with Mrs Pryor before signing up.
Ballet – Mrs C. Dobinson (Monday junior lunch break)
The ballet and dance extra is taught by Claire Dobinson (F.N.A.T.D.) and follows the syllabus of the National Association of Teachers of Dancing. The first half of the term is devoted to Ballet, currently Grade Three level, which includes barre work, centre practice and unseen combinations of steps as well as a classical Ballet dance. The latter part of term is dedicated to Modern Dance including a warm up with limbering, rhythm work, turns, kicks, leaps and combinations of steps to both pop music and set N.A.T.D. music.
Please note that this Extra runs on a Monday lunchtime between 1.00 – 1.40pm.
Chess Coaching – Mr D. Levens (Monday lunch breaks)
An exciting Extra for this term sees the return of some extremely high level coaching from Mr David Levens, the current Junior England Chess Team Manager. This Extra is now running outside of the normal programme on a Monday lunch time and will break into two slots; a Senior session (Years 7 & 8) during the 12.20 – 12.55 break and a junior slot (Years 4 – 6) during the 1.05 – 1.40pm break. Any pupils attending last year are encouraged to sign up – especially as these sessions now no longer clash with other Extras – and any places/entries to Chess competitions as part of the school Chess Squad will be based on performance during these coaching times.
Circus Skills – Mr A. Parry (Session B)
A wonderful opportunity for junior pupils to learn some of the skills seen at the circus taught by our new ICT Technician Mr Parry who is fresh from doing just this as part of a project to help street children in India. Lots of fun, and guaranteed many laughs!
Cooking – Mrs C. Price (Session B)
Pupils learn how to make tasty teatime treats (usually involving lots of chocolate!) in a fun and enjoyable Extra open to all age groups.
Digital Photography – Mr S. Stoker (Session A)
After a successful year and a full page spread in this year’s Anselmian of pupil’s work this Extra continues to demonstrate the skills involved in digital photography, including capturing that perfect image and just as importantly image manipulation using computers. This Extra is run by a professional photographer with many years experience in the field. Pupils should ideally come with their own cameras to this Extra but please speak to Mrs Young before bringing them into school.
Gymnastics – Mr K. Bacon (Wednesdays after school)
An excellent chance for pupils to make the most of a gymnastics coach in a small group setting and learn those all important skills needed for keen gymnasts.
Horse Riding – Mr M. Donaldson (Extended Extra)
Lessons are given in small groups by Louise Thompson, former member of the England Under 21’s team, or her assistant, both of whom are BHSAI qualified. Beginners and more experienced riders are welcome - even if you have your own horse, instruction with Louise will improve your technique! Please note that Horse Riding runs throughout both Session A and B of the Extras programme.
Middle Boys Exploring – Mr M. Smith (Extended Extra)
Exploring gives boys in Years 5 and 6 (and also now for the first time those in Year 4 too!) the opportunity to see many varied aspects of Derbyshire within a short distance from school. Thursday afternoons become a highlight for participants as they have boisterous fun rampaging noisily around some fantastic countryside. Please note that Middle Boys Exploring runs throughout both Session A and B of the Extras programme. Wellies are also required!
Middle Boys Football – Mr M. Smith (Mondays after school)
An additional activity running between 5.30pm and 6.30 pm on a Monday evening for Year 5 & Year 6 boys which gives those wishing additional training in football and the opportunity to practise in preparation for potential matches. Day children should be collected at 6.45pm.
Mini Tennis – Mr J. Gledden (Extended Extra)
A great chance for younger pupils to practice their Tennis skills as a preparation for potentially joining the Tennis Academy in future terms. This Extra is geared specifically at those in Years 4 & 5, although after Christmas will also be open to Year 3 pupils as well and uses the same techniques and coaching styles as those found in the Tennis Academy, as well as with being based at Sheffield’s Abbeydale Tennis Club (approximately 25 minutes drive away – pupils will be taken to and from the venue by a member of staff who will remain with them whilst at the club). Please note that Mini Tennis runs throughout both Session A and B of the Extras programme.
Mountain Biking – Mr M. Speed / Mr D. Gerard-Pearse (Extended Extra)
An exciting chance for Year 7 & Year 8 to stretch their legs and experience all the excitement of off-road mountain biking. This ever popular Extra would be great for anybody wishing to try a slightly different sporting activity or simply just those with boundless energy!
Children will need to bring their own bikes and safety equipment – if your child is thinking of beginning this Extra in the autumn please contact Martin at ms@speeds.co.uk for full details and a necessary equipment list prior to the start of this Extra. Please note that Mountain Biking runs throughout both Session A and B of the Extras programme.
Pottery – Mrs E. Eccleston (Sessions A & B)
The Pottery class is an opportunity for students to enjoy themselves and be creative with clay. Pupils have fun using expressive skills and learning different techniques to produce pots by hand or using a wheel. They experience the whole process, from taking the raw clay to the finishing and glazing of their fired piece. They also make different pots for the different seasons, such as Christmas and Easter but have the chance to make pretty much make anything you can think of!
Junior Swim Club – Mrs J. Knowles (Session A)
Swimming is an opportunity for swimmers to develop style and stroke technique whilst working towards various badges and awards. The children are given the opportunity to learn diving and associated skills such as starts, finishes and tumble turns as well as being given the opportunity to improve speed and stamina. It is also great fun to be with new people and a variety of age groups.
Table Tennis – Mr M. Smith (Wednesday after school)
A Wednesday afternoon Extra open to Boarders and Day children from Year 4 to Year 8 who wish to play Table Tennis in a relaxed and friendly environment. This session runs between 5pm and 6pm in the Sports Hall and although attendance is expected after the initial sign-up children are exempted on the grounds of matches whenever it is appropriate. Day children will need to be collected by parents at 6pm.
Tennis Academy – Mr J. Gledden (Extended Extra)
Tennis players who want to show commitment are given the chance to go to the Abbeydale Tennis Club in Sheffield to receive performance level coaching in a small group setting for one session per week. After the recent successes of some of last terms participants at the prestigious Repton Tournament (U11 Girls Doubles overall winner & U11 Boys double runners-up) it is clear that this Extra is invaluable for those wishing to improve and hone their skills. Please note that Tennis Academy runs throughout both Session A and B of the Extras programme.