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Offering an extensive intellectual programme is key to the development of students as rounded and accomplished individuals. At Hurst College, students of all ages can access a wide range of activities. These include talks with visiting speakers, trips to broaden their subject knowledge, clubs to encourage their interests, and higher up the school tailored support with their chosen university course. Going above and beyond the standard school curriculum is necessary for students to experience life to the full.

Model United Nations

A couple of years ago, a new society was launched, Model United Nations (MUN) – a simulation of the real United Nations organisation. Students participate in fortnightly sessions and take on the representation of a country as they work with one another to debate the diplomatic issues of the day. In preparation for conferences, in which they have won a high number of awards, Hurst’s MUN team visit several international embassies to meet with their diplomatic teams. The older students also organise introductory events for the younger students.

CREST and STEM

CREST and STEM activity continues to thrive, as record numbers of students achieve CREST Awards at gold and silver levels. The awards follow eight months and 70 hours minimum work on a diverse range of science and engineering projects. The Hurst Engineering Scheme was launched two years ago, as a replacement for the Engineering Education Scheme. Sponsorship was secured for a record three teams. Balfour Beatty sponsored two teams, Southern Water one team, and mentoring engineers meet students at the college and virtually.

Young Enterprise

Hurst has a long and successful track record with Young Enterprise, winning awards at county and regional level. Each year the teams create new products, design bespoke websites, and build comprehensive brands which always produce a profit. Two years ago, the Plants with Purpose YE team also made the final of the JA (Junior Achievement) competition, the European version of YE, as one of only five UK teams selected to take part.

University applications

Lower Sixth students can attend regular small group sessions with a member of Hurst’s teaching staff, to prepare them for completing a competitive application to a highly selective university. In order to obtain an offer, going beyond achieving good A-level/BTEC grades is a requirement. Students are matched with the appropriate subject specialist, and take part in sessions which include recommending, monitoring, and discussing extra reading; encountering more challenging content from beyond the curriculum; preparing entries to essay and other academic competitions; and preparing talks, lectures and seminars for students to deliver to peers.

Oxbridge, STEM, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry

In addition, students who are considering Oxbridge, STEM degrees, Medicine, Veterinary Science or Dentistry are given further support through tailored workshops and interview practice, specific to their applications. Admission tutors from these areas visit Hurst to give candidates an insight into what is required. Hurst also organises visits to Oxford and Cambridge to meet former students who are already studying there.

Activities beyond the curriculum

Support and encouragement to participate in intellectual activities beyond the curriculum enables students to challenge themselves, broaden their knowledge and access a greater range of opportunities for their futures.

Learn more about Academic Enrichment at Hurst College