Extra Curricular

As much fun as exploring mathematics can be, we all need a little variety in life. Extra-curricular activities are an excellent way to provide balance and can be a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Whilst we run some activities at EMS, our students are also able to tap into the extensive programme of activities offered by Exeter College.

Exeter College

We have an extended lunchtime of 90 minutes on most days (even longer on Wednesday) that coincides with Exeter College’s year 12 lunch-break, giving our students time to walk to college, take part in an activity and return to school for afternoon lessons.

In students’ first week at EMS they attend a freshers-fair at Exeter College where they can sign up for clubs and activities. Students can also find details of events on the College portal.

In the past, students have enjoyed Jiu Jitsu, Debating, Ten Tors, Duke of Edinburgh, Model United Nations, Jazz Project, Basketball, Rugby, Hockey, British Sign Language, Christian Union, LGBTQ+ Club, Young Enterprise, Gym, Big Band, Orchestra and Badminton. But don’t let that list restrict you, if the College offers it and it fits your timetable, you’re welcome to attend.

Here’s some thoughts from a few of our students

Charlie, MUN: “Model United Nations is a great way to do something different outside of EMS. After school on a Thursday, lots of people very similar to those who go to EMS participate, and it’s very easy to fit in.”
Bethany, Hockey: “I play hockey for the college sports academy, training twice a week and matches on Wednesday afternoon. Not only do I love the sport but I’ve also met some amazing people who I wouldn’t have otherwise.”
Michael, Jiu Jitsu: “I’ve been attending Exeter College Jiu Jitsu for about one and a half years now. I must admit that it has definitely served me well, but not only in my fitness but also for my self-confidence, and the ability to feel safer in a lot of situations. I will definitely continue doing it when I go to university as it is such a great thing to be […]
Emily, Orchestra: “I do full orchestra on a Wednesday lunchtime. I really enjoy it because it means I play my violin more during the week. I’ve performed in concerts with full orchestra and it’s really nice because performing makes me happy!”
Seth, Basketball: “I play basketball on a Monday lunchtime at the college, I really enjoy this because it helps with my core game skills while allowing me to blow off some steam in a fun and relaxed environment.”
Matthew, CU: “On Wednesday lunchtime I head on over to the college to join in with the Christian Union. It’s a great chance to talk about faith, hang out and get free doughnuts!”
Yuki, 10 Tors: “I found that 10 Tors was great way to make friends in Exeter College, as there is really no alternative to getting on well when you’re stuck in a hailstorm on High Willhays.”
Ryan, Debating Club: “I’ve really enjoyed debating club and it has given me the opportunity to make friends over at the college in an informal atmosphere. I also have greatly improved my public speaking which was good preparation for my Exeter Maths Certificate presentation and it has even given me the opportunity to go to a competition.”

Student Volunteers

We encourage our students to volunteer in various ways throughout their time at EMS. Volunteering has a number benefits including teaching valuable skills, improving self esteem and job prospects. Many of our Outreach events, particularly in the Autumn Term, rely on student volunteers to be involved. Pupils from other schools who participate in the programmes really benefit from having EMS students support them and gives them a greater feel of life at EMS.

Students also get involved in events in school such as helping at parent evenings and are regularly asked to show visitors and prospective staff around the school. Student volunteers manage the library and help ensure the student areas such as the kitchen and courtyard are kept tidy.

In previous years we have asked for volunteers on an ad hoc basis as events come up. However, this year we asked all students to complete an online form at the beginning of the school year where they chose Outreach events and school activities they would like to be involved with. This has proved very successful and has given all students the opportunity to be fully involved in the school community.

EMS Activities

We host a number of clubs and activities at EMS. These are often student-led: we encourage students to lead their own activities and support them to do so by providing a room or other resources. Our star-craft tournament, instigated by a student that has now left, has become an annual fixture and last year saw our first Table Tennis tournament. Whether it’s chess, juggling, board games, Frisbee in the park, or something we’ve not yet thought about, we’ll do our best to make it happen.

Academic Activities

We enter students for a lot of competitions and academic challenges. These are mostly just for fun with students opting in, sometimes preparing by collaborating with others at lunchtimes. The shared enthusiasm and support of peers often results in excellent results but it’s the taking part and development of understanding and skills which really motivates our students. Activities include, but are not restricted to, United Kingdom Maths Trust challenges and Olympiads, Institute of Physics team challenge, Physics Olympiad, Bebras computational challenge, English Speaking Board examination, Chess competitions and Linguistics Olympiad.

Social Events

When students first join us they have a week of induction to the school. This includes social activities (sports, meal out, board games) as well as academic. The EMS BBQ has become a regular social fixture for the end of the year too.

Students in residential accommodation have regular social events throughout the year and our student council are working towards making this happen for all students.

Student Council

The student council are very active at EMS. Meeting once a half-term, they have an important role in ensuring students’ views are carefully considered and discussed. The co-chairs of student council attend governors meetings, ensuring school leaders hear directly from students and understand their needs before making important decisions.

In the previous years, in addition to their ongoing input to school life, the Student Council have worked together with staff members to review and improve our homework system, to re-design out outside communal area, and to collaborate on meeting students’ needs during lockdown. In the coming academic year, our student council will have a budget to allocate to projects which they agree are important in improving students’ experience at EMS.