Enrichment

Home / Curriculum / Enrichment

Enrichment is an effective way to develop and embed our Dean Trust Curriculum Values, particularly: Global Citizenship and Healthy in Mind, Body and Soul.

At Lord Derby Academy, we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom and that all pupils deserve a well-rounded, culturally rich education. Indeed, the building of cultural capital is intrinsic to all areas of life at the school. Enrichment opportunities help pupils to develop their interests and strengthen their abilities. Enrichment provides pupils with valuable learning experiences both through and outside of their academic studies. Our enrichment programmes promote independence and encourage interpersonal links with other pupils.

At Lord Derby Academy, we believe it is our responsibility to enable pupils to develop key skills and attitudes that will support them to thrive as adults and responsible citizens. We strive to support pupils in developing their talents and interests and, with this in mind, pupils have access to an extensive range of enrichment activities and experiences during their time at our school.

Alongside an academically rigorous and aspirational curriculum, a wide variety of extra-curricular activities are on offer before school, during lunch and after school. These activities provide pupils with opportunities to connect with other pupils, learn new skills, be physically active and support well-being.

Enrichment also extends beyond extra-curricular clubs at Lord Derby Academy. Throughout the year, there are numerous trips, visits, competitions, volunteering opportunities, external speakers and theatre and dance groups who work with our pupils. We have a strong tradition of sport at the Academy, with regular local and national sporting competitions and fixtures taking place. Swimming lessons, which take place at Knowsley Leisure and culture park, are a key element of the P.E. curriculum, teaching pupils an essential life skill, progressing from basic swimming strokes to advanced lifesaving skills. Also, there is a ‘Festival of Sport’ which takes place during the summer term. All pupils take part in the British Heart Foundation ‘Call Push Rescue’ initiative, and receive a certificate after completing their basic CPR course in school.

There are a range of leadership opportunities for our pupils through participation in the Pupil Parliament, House System, and as a subject Ambassador within individual subject areas. Pupils have the opportunity to develop a variety of skills through enrolment on The Duke of Edinburgh Award. At Key Stage 4 pupils have the opportunity to sign up to the National Citizen Service and to take part in local community work over the summer break. These opportunities provide pupils with a platform to have their views and opinions heard, as well as to learn and develop their social and emotional skills in a fun and active way.

During Year 11 there is a focus on academic support, with all pupils in the year group having access to study support sessions, in addition to the regular enrichment opportunities. This gives them any extra support they may require to achieve the highest possible academic standards.

We aspire for as many of our pupils to attend further education as possible, and be as successful in reaching their full potential. We have well established links with local 6th Form colleges, and aim to encourage ambition and aspiration through regular college visits and taster days for Key Stage 4 Pupils, The Prestigious University Programme, and visits to experience life as a student at Liverpool John Moore’s University.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE)

The Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) is the world’s leading youth achievement award, preparing 14-24-year olds for life and work by equipping them with the skills, experience and confidence to successfully navigate adult life.

A DofE programme is designed for the individual and enables a young person to set personal goals. Through achieving a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award, young people from all backgrounds and circumstances to have the unique opportunity to grow as young adults; gaining valuable life experience whilst developing essential employability skills. They improve their fitness, volunteer for causes that are important to them, plan and go on an expedition and, for Gold, spend time away from home, with people they’ve never met, completing a shared activity; making new friends and memories.

A DofE programme develops tenacity, commitment and determination, admirable attributes that have a lasting impact, broadening each young person’s prospects. The DofE is run through thousands of organisations including schools, academies, youth clubs, businesses, voluntary organisations and young offender institutions.

The below enrichment guide provides an overview of what is on offer for pupils, and how it will benefit them during their time at Lord Derby Academy:

Select Language