Brass Ensemble

The chance for all John Lyon’s brass instrumentalists to improve their skills as part of a group will be the reward for pupils during Brass Ensemble.

Brass Ensemble is a chamber music ensemble for all brass players, which aims to perform in concerts once or twice each term, including in the set-piece Autumn Concert and Spring Concert in the Boyd Campbell Hall. Through membership of the ensemble, pupils improve their individual brass playing, their teamwork skills and also their ability to play in an ensemble. As the group develops it aims to accomplish more and more challenging repertoire.

Chamber Orchestra

The opportunity for the School’s finest instrumentalists to challenge their own abilities and a chance to advance their skills even further will be the rewards for pupils during Chamber Orchestra.

Chamber Orchestra is John Lyon’s top instrumental ensemble, consisting of up to 20 pupils who are all Grade 5 or above, and who have passed an audition with the Director and Assistant Director of Music for entry. Performing once or twice a term at our major concerts, as well as other occasions, pupils gain valuable experience through the playing of challenging repertoire and become better all-round musicians by surrounding themselves with other good musicians.

Concert Band

Exposure to a varied repertoire from the canon of western music and focused rehearsals will be the rewards for pupils during Concert Band.

This all-inclusive ensemble performs repertoire from the canon of Western music and includes arrangements of film and popular music in addition to more traditional classical genres. The ensemble performs regularly in each end of term concert and there may be the opportunity of performing in concerts in public venues both in the UK and abroad. Rehearsals will focus on refining  performance skills, developing technical control on instrument, improving sight-reading ability and establishing more advanced methods of expression through the use of dynamics and phrasing suitable to the style and mood of the music. The skills attained in rehearsal will not only promote pupils’ confidence in performance but will develop resilience for external examinations in ABRSM/Rock School examinations.

Flute Choir

The chance to play in an established musical group and developing musicianship will be the rewards for pupils during Flute Choir.

With pupils of all ages and standards, Flute Choir is an ensemble for all John Lyon flautists that rehearses and performs a range of music repertoire for concert performances throughout the year. Pupils improve their individual flute playing, their teamwork skills and also their ability to play in an ensemble. The skills attained in rehearsal not only promote confidence in performance but also develop resilience for ABRSM music examinations. Furthermore, pupils enhance their ability to work as a unified group, improving reaction and response times in many aspects of music, including coordination and musical balance.

Guitar Ensemble

The chance to play in an established musical group and to develop musicianship will be the rewards for pupils during Guitar Ensemble.

With pupils of all ages and musical standards, Guitar Ensemble is an ensemble designed for all John Lyon’s classical and acoustic guitarists that rehearses and performs a range of music repertoire for concert performances throughout the year. Pupils improve their individual guitar playing, their teamwork skills and also their ability to play in an ensemble. These skills not only promote confidence in performance but also help pupils develop resilience for ABRSM and Rockschool music examinations. Furthermore, pupils enhance their ability to act as a unified group, improving reaction and response times in many aspects of music, including coordination and musical balance.

Jazz Band

The chance to play music in a group and help to shape each unique performance through improvisations will be the rewards for pupils during Jazz Band.

Made up of some of the School’s more advanced musicians, Jazz Band gives performers the chance to play music from the Jazz songbook and looks to develop pupils’ improvisational and communication skills through performances that are never the same twice. The musical standard of the ensemble is set high to stretch students’ abilities and to develop advanced musicianship skills. Playing from lead sheets that are open to interpretation, each member of the ensemble has a voice in shaping each unique performance and through this work all members develop ensemble skills including control of tone, tuning, technique, balance, rhythm, dynamics, articulation and expression.

Motet Choir

Improved singing, sight-reading and general musicianship, as well as the opportunity to sing in locations both near and far will be the rewards for pupils during Motet Choir.

Motet Choir is one of the main musical ensembles at John Lyon, and is the main choir of the School, with around 50 members. Choir members finesse their singing skills, learning how to blend with those around them to create a unified choral sound. They also improve their general musicianship skills and learn how to follow a conductor. Motet Choir sings at most of the main concerts in the School year, also collaborating with other schools including Harrow and Northwood College. The very best choir members may also have opportunities to sing solos, and all members can look forward to regular overseas tours, the last two destinations being Venice and Salzburg.

Music Clinic

A chance for any pupils, particularly those studying for GCSE/A-Level/Oxbridge, to explore aspects of the subject further with one of the full-time academic staff..

Music Theory Class

An improved knowledge of music theory, up to and beyond the well-recognised Grade 5 theory exam, a greater musical understanding and the possibility of UCAS points will be the rewards for pupils during Music Theory Class and Advanced Music Theory and Aural Class.

Music Theory is a core component of the graded music exam system, with a Grade 5 pass required to move beyond Grade 5 level in any musical instrument. Music Theory Class gives pupils the opportunity to learn and improve their theory knowledge, in order to be able to sit and pass the important examination. Advanced Music Theory and Aural Class is a small group for pupils who have passed their ABRSM Grade 5 Theory and are now aiming to take the rare and challenging qualifications of Grades 6, 7 or 8 Theory. These advanced theory grades are deemed equivalent to A-Levels in difficulty and are thus worth UCAS points, meaning they are a valuable addition for any pupil going on to university.

Percussion Ensemble

The chance to discover and improve performance on a wide range of instruments within a fun ensemble group will be the rewards for pupils during Percussion Ensemble.

With access to a wide range of percussion, from boomwhackers to timpani, Percussion Ensemble is designed for all pupils interested in performing on a range of instruments and is suited to those with rhythm and basic drumming skills. Weekly rehearsals focus on a wide range of interesting repertoire, with some composed by John Lyon’s visiting drum teacher. Pupils learn key percussion skills and perfect their rhythm, concentration, teamwork and also their ability to play in an ensemble. The skills attained in rehearsal not only promote each pupil’s confidence in performance but also develop resilience and creativity. Furthermore, pupils enhance their ability to act as a unified group, improving reaction and response times in many aspects of music, including coordination and musical balance.

R&B Group

Developed rhythm, tone, technique and reading skills as well as the chance to play popular music as part of a group will be the rewards for pupils during R&B Group.

With members from all year groups, this ensemble performs music from the Rhythm & Blues and Soul songbooks, performing bespoke arrangements of songs by a wide range of artists from Stevie Wonder to Bruno Mars. Playing from professional music charts to help expand reading skills, pupils quickly develop and the musical standard of the ensemble is continually increased to help stretch pupils’ abilities and to develop musicianship skills beyond the normal music syllabus with skills such as tone, tuning, technique, balance, rhythm, dynamics, articulation and expression. R&B Group performs in multiple concerts across the year, culminating in a performance at the annual Rock Concert at the end of Summer Term.

Rock Jam Sessions

The chance to play and sing popular and original music in a band and developing wider musical skills will be the rewards for s during Rock Jam Sessions.

These sessions are designed for all pupils interested in performing in a band, and ideally suited to musicians who play electric guitar, bass guitar, drums and for rock and pop singers who wish to stretch their vocal muscles. The band works on set repertoire as well as original compositions and performs at concerts throughout the School year. Pupils are given access to a range of instruments and learn key skills to help with their playing, teamwork and also their ability to play in a group. The skills attained in rehearsal not only promote confidence in performance but also develop resilience and creativity.

String Ensemble

Improving musical skills and musicianship as part of a large musical group playing a wide variety of music will be the rewards for pupils during String Ensemble.

This all-inclusive ensemble performs repertoire from the canon of Western music and includes arrangements of film and popular music in addition to more traditional classical genres. The ensemble performs regularly at each end of term concert and there may be the opportunity to perform in concerts in public venues both in the UK and abroad. The music chosen for this ensemble is customised to each individual, allowing pupils to be challenged at a level suitable to their ability. Rehearsals focus on refining their performance skills, developing technical control on their instrument, improving sight-reading ability and establishing more advanced methods of expression through the use of dynamics and phrasing suitable to the style and mood of the music. The skills attained in rehearsal not only promote pupil confidence in performance but also develop resilience for external examinations for ABRSM and Rockschool examinations.

The Pride of Lyon's

Improved singing and musicianship gained within a small group of elite singers will be the rewards for pupils during The Pride of Lyon’s.

The Pride of Lyon’s is John Lyon’s elite choir, comprised of no more than 12 of the best singers in School. As part of the Pride, pupils fine-tune their singing skills and get experience in holding a harmony line either on their own or with one other pupil. This group performs to the highest level and matters such as timbre, tone and blend are considered in rehearsals. Much of the music is a capella, and from a wide range of styles. Pupils participate in multiple performances each term, including some very high-profile occasions. It is hoped the Pride of Lyon’s may also soon look to compete in competitions.

Year 7 Choir

The chance to begin a musical journey and to learn new skills as part of a fun group will be the rewards for pupils during Year 7 Choir.

Designed for all of John Lyon’s youngest pupils, Year 7 Choir allows all pupils to access a musical education, regardless of their previous exposure to music. Rehearsals focus on refining performance skills, developing vocal projection and improving technical control when singing. The skills attained in rehearsal not only promote pupils’ confidence in performance but also develop resilience and aid non-musical skills like public speaking. The repertoire for this ensemble is hugely varied with traditional songs as well as music taken from popular culture. The ensemble performs regularly throughout the School year.

Animation

Using imagination and planning to tell a story, as well as the chance for work to be seen around School will be the rewards for pupils during Animation.

Animation has come a long way from simple flip-books and is now box office. In this course pupils will make a short animation that can tell a story, sell a product or promote a point of view. Beginning on a paper-based storyboard it will then be animated using Adobe Animate. Once all animations are collected, the best will be shown on screens around School and on the School website.

Art Club

The opportunity to explore art through a range of media and techniques, as well as creating exciting new work will be the rewards for pupils during Art Club.

With morning, lunchtime and after school sessions throughout the week, Art Club gives pupils the time and space to explore a variety of artistic formats and techniques alongside their peers and pupils from all years. Pupils can use Art Club to initiate their own new projects or use it as time to develop work from their Art classes or complete homework using the resources and equipment within the department. Pupils are able to experiment, develop technical skills and explore a variety of creative techniques.

Drama Club

The chance to have fun through creative and collaborative exercises and performance will be the reward for pupils during Drama Club.

Designed for Lower School pupils, Drama Club sees pupils work creatively on tasks such as improvisation and drama games, with opportunities to use costumes and props. During rehearsals pupils improve their communication with each other and then develop self-confidence through performance.

Portraiture Club

The foundational skills and knowledge needed for effective portrait painting will be the rewards for pupils during Portraiture Club.

Portraiture club Involves the boys being taught by a professional portrait artist the step by step process of painting a highly detailed oil portrait, as well as other styles of portraiture and the photography skills and techniques needed to prepare a top quality portrait.

Print Club

Developed creative thinking, the ability to work independently and problem solving will be the rewards for pupils during Print Club.

Print Club explores a variety of print formats with pupils researching a variety of artists’ work and then developing their own designs. Pupils learn how to create mono prints, lino and other relief print techniques, creating personal and exciting work. Pupils are able to develop their research skills, will be able to present ideas to their peers and will develop creative design skills. They also develop practical skills including refining, creating and constructing.

Badminton

The development of key skills in a popular School sport, the chance to play in a John Lyon team and increased fitness will be the rewards for pupils during Badminton.

Within a competitive but fun environment pupils practise drills and rallies relevant to match play, learning to become confident decision makers whilst on court playing either singles or doubles, to be organised and honest whilst competing and to play to win. They also develop a greater understanding of what they are trying to achieve and how to achieve it through increased knowledge of strategy, tactics and problem solving. Furthermore, they show the motivation to improve and develop the technical skills and control of body movement to confidently participate and contribute within competitive situations. The players with the most promise get the opportunity to play in competitive fixtures against other schools.

Basketball

The chance to develop skills and tactics in one of John Lyon’s fastest-growing sports, as well as the opportunity to play for a School team will be the rewards for pupils during Basketball.

Pupils have an introduction to the game of Basketball and learn to develop key skills such as shooting, dribbling and passing. Pupils learn to take on leadership roles as well as understanding more about teamwork. Those reaching the higher levels are selected for School teams at U13, U14 and U16 levels and have these skills put to the test in competitive fixtures against other schools.

Cricket Training

The chance to develop key Cricket, teamwork and social skills in anticipation of the Summer season will be the rewards for pupils during the Cricket Training sessions.

John Lyon’s Cricket Programme gives pupils across the School the opportunity to play the popular sport even outside the main season, developing sporting talent as well as encouraging all pupils to be confident decision makers and ambitious. Pupils learn fundamentals of batting, bowling and fielding to improve their performance as individuals and as part of a team. They also develop an awareness of tactics dependent on the type of game being played, and whether they should be defensive or attacking in different game situations. Furthermore, through working within a team environment, pupils also develop key life skills such as punctuality, effective communication, teamwork, a work ethic and social skills. John Lyon’s Elite Cricketers (by invitation) work with coaches to develop advanced technical components of both batting and bowling. Specialist sessions stretch top performers and there are opportunities for pupils to experience one-to-one sessions as well as to use video analysis to further enhance their sporting development.

Fitness Club

The chance to improve fitness and knowledge of the human body and its limits will be the rewards for pupils during Fitness Club.

Fitness Club helps pupils understand that fitness is an important part of a healthy, active lifestyle and how exercise contributes to improved health and self-regard. In the clubs pupils are given the chance to demonstrate good body control, balance, fluency and accuracy in their movements, and stay physically active for sustained periods of time, all while learning correct use of gym equipment. Working to their own fitness goals through personalised programmes using appropriate equipment for the age of each pupil, pupils develop the self-motivation and psychological strength needed to reach their targets. They develop the confidence to get involved in PE and Sport and are willing to demonstrate what they can do, volunteer questions and answers, ask for help when they need it and talk positively about their achievements. They try new activities and sports without worrying about failing.

Football

Life skills including punctuality, teamwork and a work ethic as well as improved physical and technical skills will be the rewards for boys during Senior Football Training.

By being part of the John Lyon Football Programme, boys demonstrate their commitment to the sport, showing excellent organisational skills and taking responsibility for themselves and the team. Led by UEFA and FA qualified coaches on John Lyon’s excellent Sudbury pitches, boys will develop a greater understanding of what they are trying to achieve and how to achieve it through increased knowledge of strategy, tactics and problem solving. Furthermore, they show the motivation to improve and develop the technical skills and control of body movement to confidently participate and contribute within competitive situations, especially in the many fixtures throughout the season.

Hockey Training

An opportunity to develop skills and tactics in the School’s major Spring Term sport will be the rewards for pupils during Hockey Training.

All boys have the opportunity to participate in Hockey activities during the Spring Term. Those selected for representative teams are invited to train after school to further their development within the sport. Pupils will learn key technical skills required to outwit opponents whilst developing their leadership and teamwork capabilities. Fixtures are played across all age groups, both midweek and on Saturday mornings.

Kayak Club

Increased water confidence and both physical and mental challenge in a fun activity will be the rewards for pupils during Kayak Club.

Largely based in the John Lyon Swimming Pool, Kayak Club allows pupils to have fun while learning numerous kayak skills including how to exit a capsized boat, manoeuvring a kayak using a combination of boat, body, paddles and water, and using equipment safely, confidently and effectively. Pupils gain water confidence through working together as part of a team, discovering that what they put in both physically and mentally has a direct effect on the outcomes. Pupils are able to undertake the Start Award and Discover Award, both recognised kayak qualifications. In Summer Term there will be a number of trips to experience different environments and types of craft, such as stand up paddle boards and Canadian canoes.

Sea Scooter and Snorkelling

Increased water confidence and instruction in how to get the most from equipment will be the rewards for pupils during Sea Scooter and Snorkelling.

Based in the John Lyon Swimming Pool, pupils use sea scooters and snorkels to explore the pool and understand how to use the equipment correctly. Both activities help improve water confidence by assisting with aquatic breathing. They also encourage pupils to be respectful as the equipment needs to be maintained properly so it can continue to be used. Allowing the pupils to submerge while assisting with aquatic breathing builds confidence and may lead to them exploring other activities in the pool environment.

Sports Conditioning

Development of the self-motivation and psychological strength to reach their full sporting potential and performance goals will be the rewards for pupils during Sports Conditioning.

In these sessions pupils will develop their physical health, psycho-social wellbeing, performance and resistance to sports-related injuries. All pupils are baseline tested by a fully qualified fitness instructor each term and given an individual termly programme based upon the needs analysis of their sport, to be completed within the fitness suite throughout the term. Sports Conditioning for Sports Scholars is designed specifically for those pupils identified as having exceptional sporting skills, to give the opportunity for support and development of their conditioning and encourage them to take responsibility for maximising their sporting potential. Each Sports Scholar will then receive a termly review of their programme to ensure they are seeing positive progress within their sessions. They will be able to monitor their progress and individually adapt and overload exercises to aid their sporting needs.

Swimming

Enhanced self-confidence and skills developed through a range of learning and competition will be the rewards for pupils during Swim Session.

Designed for swimmers at various levels these structured sessions led by the School’s resident Swimming Coach are designed to focus upon stroke technique, fitness and core aquatic skills. Pupils will learn how to swim confidently and proficiently using various stroke techniques and will develop safe self-rescue techniques in different water-based situations. They will also have the opportunity to compete in individual and team competitions and galas. Pupils identified as the strongest swimmers are offered invitations to attend additional sessions to stretch and challenge their capabilities.

Table Tennis

The opportunity to play both socially and competitively in a challenging but fun environment will be the rewards for pupils during Table Tennis.

Based in the School Sports Hall, pupils receive one-to-one coaching aiding their Table Tennis development. Sessions focus on technical and tactical game play for both singles and double competition. Pupils learn the fundamentals of serving, forehand and backhand techniques to improve their performance as individuals and as pairs, developing an awareness of tactics dependent on the type of game being played. The pupils know when and how to use games strategy, tactics and techniques to be successful. Pupils develop self-confidence, self-competence and resilience in the face of setbacks and failures. When competing in singles competitions and through working within a pair, pupils also develop key life skills such as punctuality and teamwork.

Tennis

The chance to improve technique and tactics and enhanced overall fitness will be the rewards for pupils during Tennis Club.

Based on the courts at Sudbury, Tennis Club gives keen players the opportunity to receive additional one-to-one coaching to improve technical aspects of their singles and doubles games. Pupils learn the fundamentals of serving, forehand and backhand techniques to improve their performance as individuals and as pairs. They develop an awareness of tactics dependent on the type of game being played. Pupils develop self-confidence, self-competence and resilience in the face of setbacks and failures. When competing in singles competitions and through working within a pair, pupils also develop key life skills such as punctuality and teamwork.

Volleyball Club

The chance to develop a love for the game and hone new skills, will be the rewards for pupils during Volleyball Club.

With the increasing popularity of volleyball across the globe, pupils will have a chance to learn the skills needed to play the sport with confidence and have fun at it. We will learn and practice different serving techniques, as well as how to pass, set and hit the ball accurately. Pupils will also learn the value of team work and communication in achieving shared goals.

Water Polo

The opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of this popular John Lyon sport and to develop wider sporting knowledge and competencies will be the rewards for pupils during Water Polo.

All pupils are invited to attend Water Polo open sessions to work on technique and match play within a recreational learning environment. Sessions are fully inclusive and are structured around enjoyment and learning the fundamental skills of the sport. Pupils will learn how to shoot, pass and dribble competently and confidently using various techniques. They will also have the opportunity to compete in team-based game play. In squad training, older pupils will further develop their knowledge of the sport, learning more about individual positions and the role they play within a successful team. There is also the opportunity to take part in competitive fixtures against other schools and clubs.

Astronomy

A greater knowledge of the vastness of the universe will be the reward for pupils during Astronomy.

Have you ever wondered what else is out there? On this course you will learn more about our position in the Universe, the movements of planets and stars, the cycles in the night and daytime sky, and the ways in which we use technology to observe and interact with space. You will follow an incredible story of how scientists, from ancient civilisations to the modern day, have used their imagination and carefully recorded visual measurement to explore the Universe in which we live.

Beekeeping

A greater appreciation of the natural world and interest in biological sciences through the care of John Lyon’s own bees will be the rewards for pupils during Beekeeping.

Beekeeping is an interesting and enjoyable activity in which pupils learn how to set up and grow their own hives, nurture bees over a period of time and come to understand the intricate workings of the honeybee hive. It develops in them an appreciation of the natural world and an interest in biological sciences, while simultaneously allowing them to contribute significantly to preserving a species that is currently under severe pressure.

Biochemistry Journal Club

Increased confidence, data and critical analysis skills, independent thought and debating skills will be the rewards for pupils during Biochemistry Journal Club.

Biochemistry Journal Club is a focused group in which students can discuss material that complements and extends both the GCSE and A-Level curriculums, deliberately chosen to stretch understanding and to allow examination of scientific research. A paper is chosen for each session and is the basis for discussion and debate. This is a great opportunity to discover new and exciting research that will both enhance university applications and challenge pupils’ understanding of what we currently know about science and what is yet to be discovered. Pupils improve their ability to critically evaluate articles, provide thoughtful commentary and discuss their points articulately. They have to think independently and broaden their knowledge of current research within the field of science.

Biomedical Club

Enhanced leadership and public speaking skills, an awareness of wider health issues and being prepared for university applications will be the rewards for students during Biomedical Club.

Designed for students looking to pursue a career in the medical sciences, Biomedical Club allows students to consider important issues related to Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine. Students discuss topical issues related to the NHS, such as the increase in the number of people with type II diabetes and resistance to vaccinations, also considering important advances in the field of biomedical science. Through contributing to and leading seminars students enhance their leadership and public speaking skills while developing a greater awareness of the personal and academic attributes required to work in the medical field. The club also discusses university personal statements and preparation for entrance exams and interviews, giving students a good idea of how to develop strategies to prepare and pass the UCAT and BMAT exams.

Board Game Club

Increased strategic skills and discipline gained within a fun and relaxed environment will be the rewards for pupils during Board Game Club.

With a range of traditional and modern games on offer, Board Game Club gives pupils the chance to engage with both the task at hand as well as each other. Designed as a club in which pupils in all years can meet and talk to Sixth Form Mentors, it provides an informal, calm and relaxed environment for all pupils. Both the games and the interactions are designed to foster a sense of discipline and respect for equipment and each other.

Careers Drop-in

The knowledge to be able to make informed decisions on education, training and future jobs will be the reward for pupils during Careers Drop-in.

Led by the School’s Careers Advisor, this drop in session held in the Library is available to pupils in all years and gives them access to advice and guidance on careers, education and work opportunities. Pupils are also able to learn more about what GCSE and A-Levels would be required or useful for certain degree courses and can be given tips about CVs. They can also discover new avenues they may not have previously considered.

CCF

An opportunity to further both the skills and knowledge discovered in CCF as part of the Co-Curricular Programme will be the rewards for pupils during CCF.

CCF consists of a range of activities from leadership tasks, developing teamwork and leadership skills, to physically demanding tasks such as working through an obstacle course. Pupils learn marksmanship skills, the intricacies of drill, surviving in the field and self-reliance – all working towards developing confidence and rounding their personalities. Pupils learn to work within a team as well as assuming a leadership role. Additionally, they learn to problem solve creatively through participation in command tasks. CCF challenges pupils both mentally and physically by putting them into a range of unfamiliar situations meaning they must show resolve to overcome problems.

Classics Club

The opportunity to learn more about Ancient Greece and an introduction to GCSE learning will be the rewards for pupils during Classics Club.

Pupils will be introduced to the language of the Ancient Greeks as well as aspects of the culture from which we get democracy. They will learn the the story of Dikaiopolis and his family through which they will get an insight into how the Greeks lived. Pupils who attend this club will also then be able to consider Ancient Greek as a GCSE option.

Computer Gaming

The chance to create new computer games as well as giving and receiving constructive peer feedback will be the rewards for pupils during Computer Gaming.

Using software to design and create their own computer games, pupils learn about principles of design and of challenge to create something brand-new from their own imagination, before testing out each other’s games and giving each other feedback on how well they work. Pupils develop creativity and design skills, as well as working as part of a team and critiquing each other’s work in a constructive way.

Excellence in French

The chance to improve linguistic and cultural knowledge of the Francophone world will be the reward for pupils during Excellence in French.

Going beyond the curriculum pupils improve their language skills and gain confidence in reading, speaking and listening to authentic French material, giving them the chance to discover songs, comic books and French language magazines. Pupils also have the opportunity to study short French film productions.

First Aid Club

Learning a skill that can save lives and last a lifetime as well as gaining a recognised qualification will be the rewards for pupils during First Aid Club.

Following St John Ambulance’s First Aid for School Pupils course, pupils learn how to care for a wide range of casualties, from those with minor injuries to those with life threatening medical conditions. The course provides a good basic understanding of First Aid, which prepares pupils for DofE and CCF courses later in their School life. Pupils learn to work within a team and on their own and there are opportunities for them to take on leadership roles. Regular attendees will achieve the well-regarded St John Ambulance qualification.

Geography Review

Developed engagement with the world around them and heightened social and environmental sensitivity will be the rewards for students during Geography Review.

The unique nature of geography, being able to bridge the gap between the social and the natural sciences, means that there is a great deal more on offer than the curriculum alone. Geography Review focuses on key areas of research in the field, based on recent publications and lectures, in order to stimulate discussion and debate on global issues. Through this, students see the connections between different fields of academia and become substantially more aware of not only the scientific or social processes at work in the world around them, but also how they can be managed sustainably into the future. Students further develop their critical understanding of the world around them whilst engaging with a range of topical issues. With engagement in debate and discussion they utilise a wide variety of evidential material to support arguments, from data analysis to verbal histories. Students are also encouraged to enter national competitions through the Royal Geographical Society encouraging them to engage with the subject in different ways. Participation in these events can make excellent additions to UCAS statements and CVs in the future. Through discussion and debate of topical issues, and consideration of where the geographer belongs in a changing world, students develop critical engagement with the world around them. Coupled with this they develop social and environmental sensitivity along with knowledge of how this is interrelated with the global economic system, allowing them to become more responsible citizens and employees of the future.

GIS Disaster Mapping

Developed research and analysis skills and greater knowledge of natural disasters on a global scale will be the rewards for pupils during GIS Disaster Mapping.

By engaging with a mixture of literature review and empirical research and having the opportunity to disseminate their findings, pupils look into numerous aspects of natural disasters, using GIS mapping software to plot locations affected by natural disasters and discussing the impact that remote locations have on hazard management and responses. Through this they gain an appreciation of the challenges faced by those in other parts of the world and develop an awareness of real-world hazard responses. Pupils develop their IT skills by learning how to use this new, sophisticated software and work collaboratively to achieve the end goal, instilling a sense of community.

Homework Club

The opportunity to complete set schoolwork in a controlled environment and improved learning skills will be the rewards for pupils during Homework Club.

Open to all pupils, Homework Club offers the opportunity to study after School, with Learning Support teachers on hand to provide advice and guidance. Pupils are able to complete the tasks they have been set, at the same time improving their study skills and time management.

Junior Debating

Developed verbal reasoning and fluency as well as greater knowledge of current affairs will be the rewards for pupils during Junior Debating.

With regular practice sessions focusing on various motions, pupils learn the basics of competitive debating and put their newly developed skills into action by competing against other schools in the North London League. Pupils expand their knowledge of current affairs as well as wider issues frequently discussed in the news. Their cultural capital increases through the exploration of relevant topics and by thinking hard about the arguments for and against certain motions. Pupils develop their verbal fluency and the ability to convey arguments logically and succinctly. They sharpen their analytical and discursive skills within a competitive environment.

MUN and Political Discourse

A developed ability to think on one’s feet and increased knowledge of real-world issues of global significance will be the rewards for pupils during Model United Nations and Political Discourse.

Responding to resolutions across political, health, environmental and security issues from different countries’ perspectives, Model United Nations and Political Discourse involves researching and debating issues of geopolitical significance. Pupils deepen their understanding of international affairs, learning to make connections between policy choices, real interests and events and also getting better at conducting research into case studies and researching the background of opposing perspectives. Pupils become adept at forming an argument in debate based on personal research and have the opportunity to attend MUN conferences, including the one organised and held at John Lyon.

Philosophy Club

An ability to reflect on complex ideas and the confidence to think independently will be the rewards for pupils during Philosophy Club.

Philosophy Club offers a journey through some of the greatest ideas in history – from ancient Greece to the present day – ideas that have changed the world and still influence the way we live our lives today. Pupils are able to deliver a presentation on an idea that has profoundly affected human society, explaining how it still impacts on the way we think. Through the club pupils develop presentation skills, an ability to present complex ideas lucidly and concisely, an understanding of how the past informs the present and confidence in their ability to think independently and raise their own critiques of others’ ideas.

The Science of Learning

The chance to look into current scientific research and gain experience in modern scientific method will be the rewards for pupils during Research Group – The Science of Learning.

This Student Research Group will look at the latest innovations and developments in teaching and learning, taking the current research and how we can apply this in the John Lyon context. Example projects will include looking at the science of learning and how our brains work. Building a clear picture of what works best for retention and recall of new learning. Another project will be to look at the relationships between pupils and adults, understanding each other better. We will look at ways to present findings to the student and staff body. Pupils in the group will engage in a mixture of literature review and empirical research as well as the opportunity to disseminate their findings. In time, pupils will use more effective learning strategies and these will be encouraged in class as routine practice.

STEP/MAT Master Class

Enhanced problem solving, stretched thinking, improved perseverance and the skills to become better independent learners will be the rewards for students during STEP/MAT Master Class.

STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) Mathematics is a well-established examination designed to test candidates on questions that are similar in style to university undergraduate Mathematics. Students aspiring to study Mathematics or Mathematics related courses at Cambridge, Imperial or Warwick are expected to achieve a good pass in the STEP exams. Students aspiring to read Mathematics or Computer Science at Oxford are expected to perform well in the MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test) exam. In the Master Class students will learn and develop the ability to apply their mathematical knowledge in novel and unfamiliar ways, which often require knowledge of several different specification topics. Students will learn and develop solution strategies, which will frequently require insight, ingenuity, persistence and the ability to work through substantial sequences of algebraic manipulation.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE)

The chance to gain valuable skills and experiences within a well-known and well-regarded award scheme will be the reward for pupils during The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

DofE is a fun adventure and major challenge, with a wide range of activities offering endless possibilities. This is the world’s leading youth achievement award, designed to push personal boundaries, deliver new skills and enhance university applications and CVs. DofE gives pupils the chance to do something completely new and improve on things they are already doing, taking them out of comfort zones and into places where individuals have to push themselves to achieve rewards. There are three levels of Award – Bronze, Silver and Gold – all of which require a commitment to community projects, physical activity and expeditions within the UK. Pupils completing any of the DofE awards build confidence, resilience, skills for work and friendship groups.

The Oxbridge Programme

The ability to examine subjects in more depth and with more breadth, as well as learning some of the skills needed to obtain an offer from the leading universities at Oxford and Cambridge, will be the rewards for students during The Oxbridge Programme.

With students selected on the merit of their GCSE results, as well as some who self-select to attend, The Oxbridge Programme involves a wide range of lectures, interviews, mentor guidance, enrichment activities, seminars and presentations, all designed to shift each student’s attitude and thinking from secondary education to higher education. As students move closer to the end of School in their Upper Sixth year, the focus moves to one-on-one preparation for UCAS, entrance tests and university interview practice. The programme is designed to give students a greater chance of success in achieving university offers by extending their knowledge beyond the A-Level curriculum. They draw knowledge from a wide range of sources, use this knowledge in higher level critical thinking, think for themselves under pressure, confidently hypothesise when challenged on their viewpoint, accurately analyse unseen data and text, synthesise information with logical coherence and can apply their knowledge to withstand debate and scrutiny. Students on The Oxbridge Programme set a very high example for younger pupils in their dedication to pursuing their passions and interests and sharing them with others. They understand that, regardless of whether they achieve an Oxbridge offer, bettering their ability to ‘think’ is a goal in and of itself that will enhance their experience of life, education and work for years to come.

Virtual Reality

A greater insight into how VR may impact our future lives and an understanding of VR technology will be the rewards for pupils during Virtual Reality.

Pupils investigate the use of Virtual Reality using the HTC VIVE system, looking at different applications and understanding the technology behind them. Pupils learn how to best use Virtual Reality technology and understand how it might impact our lives in the future as its scope and influence grow. Use of Virtual Reality, and the immersive effect, has been proven to have a range of positive benefits for the development of pupils, including those who suffer from anxiety or difficulty focusing. Many VR apps are also collaborative and require pupils to work together.