BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
co-curricular
At Blackheath High Sixth Form, your learning journey goes far beyond the classroom. This is your chance to explore what truly excites you – whether that’s launching a podcast, diving deeper into a subject you love, or discovering a new skill. Our co-curricular programme is designed to help you build confidence, broaden your thinking and experience a wide range of leadership opportunities – all giving you the edge when it comes to university applications and future opportunities.
LEADERSHIP AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Student leadership is at the heart of life at Blackheath High. We offer a wealth of opportunities for you to find your voice, take initiative and challenge yourself in new and exciting ways. Many of our students choose to take on roles of responsibility – from buddying younger girls, to organising key school events like Sports Day, and supporting academic departments. Others become prefects and representatives for key areas of school life, such as Wellbeing and Diversity & Inclusion, while our elected Head Student Team models leadership for younger students and represents the school with pride and purpose.
GDST Lead
The innovative GDST LEAD programme, in partnership with the London School of Economics, develops real-world leadership skills in a practical context and gives you hands-on insight into the business world. Guided by a dedicated mentor, you will develop business ideas, create plans and present them at an exciting final Showcase Event. Along the way, you’ll learn from leading business minds, take part in national bootcamps and challenges, and collaborate with students across the GDST network.
Unique opportunities
Our exclusive Sixth Form Opportunities programme is designed to broaden your knowledge, build practical skills and spark future ambitions. Each course offers experiences that will strengthen your university applications, enhance your employability, and support your personal growth.
You can choose from a range of specialist pathways that stretch your abilities and open new possibilities beyond the curriculum.
GDST Maths – a bespoke course designed to take your mathematical thinking to the next level and give you a competitive edge. Through weekly online evening sessions, you’ll focus on the Pure Maths skills needed for top-tier admissions tests, supported by personalised guidance and regular exam practice.
GDST SpaceTech Programme – a cutting-edge pre-university diploma created by partners including Cambridge University Space Flight, NASA DEVELOP and NASA Earth Science Data Systems. You’ll build coding expertise, apply computer science to real-world challenges, and explore the fast-evolving world of space technology.
CISI level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Financial Services – an Ofqual-regulated qualification introducing you to the professional world of finance. You’ll learn the essentials of financial knowledge – from shares and bonds to insurance and key industry terminology – gaining recognised professional credibility while still in Sixth Form.
prospects
Prospects is your guide to life beyond school – a practical course that helps you navigate every stage of your higher-education journey while developing vital skills for work and independent living. By the end, you’ll feel confident, capable and ready to take the next step.
You’ll cover real-world topics like:
- How to apply for student finance and budget effectively
- What payslips mean – and how employment or self-employment works
- How to manage money and cook well on a student budget
- The basics of car maintenance and personal safety at university
MAKE YOUR MARK
We will support you to look beyond your A-levels and turn your personal interests into something bigger. Many of our students create and lead their own Societies for younger year groups, sharing their passions, building leadership skills and inspiring others along the way. From Model United Nations and Law Society to more niche groups like Shark Soc, French Film Society and Code Crackers, there’s room for every interest.
We also create space for ideas to become reality – from Sustainability Society’s popular preloved clothing sale to Eco Club’s successful bid for a Green Flag award, you will be empowered to drive meaningful change.
TRIPS & VISITS
Our extensive trips programme is all about broadening horizons, building real-world skills and igniting curiosity. From local visits to international adventures, every experience is designed to bring your learning to life.
During your time here, you might study policy at the Houses of Parliament for Politics, visit a place of worship for Religious Studies, explore New York’s dynamic art scene, or discover Iceland’s dramatic landscapes for Geography.
Some of the most memorable moments happen far from the classroom. Our residential trips encourage you to push boundaries, build resilience and see the world from new perspectives. Sixth Formers have taken part in month-long expeditions to Peru and Nepal – camping, hiking and working with local charities to make a real impact.
Challenge yourself and take part in the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, a prestigious programme recognised by universities and employers alike. Through volunteering, developing new skills, taking on physical challenges and completing a residential and an expedition, you’ll build resilience, independence and leadership.
For the expedition, you can choose between walking in the stunning Brecon Beacons or Peak District National Park, or kayaking down the River Avon and River Thames in a bell boat. This nationally respected award is your chance to push beyond your comfort zone, work as part of a team, and achieve something truly memorable during your time in Sixth Form.
WHERE NEXT?
