Academic Pursuit Beyond The Curriculum
At Wellington every student enjoys rich opportunities for academic extension and challenge. Nobody’s potential is fixed; everybody can develop and transform his or her capacity for learning. Each and every member of the Wellington community has the opportunity to develop a genuine and lifelong love of learning.
This webpage provides details of the different ways that you can stretch and challenge yourself academically at Wellington. You can find out about weekly clubs and societies, and one-off talks, lectures and demonstrations. There is information about competitions within and beyond Wellington, as well as links to reading lists, online courses and holiday activities. Where will you take yourself?
Academic Extension Programme
Please use the filters below to find your desired activity.
Our current Academic Extension Programme for the Summer 2025 term can also be downloaded here (PDF File).
thought-provoking, inspiring talks which encourage our students to engage with topics beyond the normal curriculum and question their preconceptions.
A group discussing various issues from a feminist perspective whilst considering the perspective of all in the Wellington community. (Moral Room, Library)
little introductions to big topics in Geography.
MathsSoc – challenging problems, preparation for the Maths Challenges, and practice sessions for the College Maths team
train and compete in academic simulations of the United Nations.
discuss current topical debates
lots of challenging ideas to stretch your understanding of chemistry in this advanced group.
aims to empower and support girls in sports, promoting equality, participation, and leadership opportunities across all levels of athletic involvement.
range of fun and intellectually electrifying history themed activities: discussions; lectures; quizzing; presentations.
Biology research discussions, hands-on activities, and snacks
a chance to experiment with a range of writing techniques and enjoy the versatility of language.
hone your debating skills with expert tuition and practice. All welcome from beginners to experts and anything in between.
an auditioned group for future dancers to extend both their skill and understanding of dance and performance
discussions about human behaviour, relationships, social problems, scientific discoveries including practical experiments, visiting speakers and a trip.
philosophy discussion group
reading and listening specifically tailored for the IGCSE course (4.30pm) and IB course (5.00pm)
devoted to all things Classical, delving into ancient literature, philosophy, language, history, art, archaeology and everything in between.
various talks and discussions related to Law. Periodic guest speakers to discuss interesting cases and careers.
one-off talks on exciting literary topics with a range of speakers.
explore issues and topics related to the practice of Medicine, with student presentations, guest speakers, training sessions and practical activities.
Lecture Programme
The Fireside Talks
Every Monday evening the Master opens up the sitting room of his house and invites in an outside speaker to share their experiences. The main aim is to make the students think and question their preconceptions, rather than teach them about a particular topic. The Q&A, that is a major element of the talks, is often animated, drawing questions from students from all year groups. Please bring a cushion.
Michaelmas Term
Sept – Dec 2025
Mon 8th Sept, 6-7pm, GS
Why We’re Getting Poorer: A Realist’s Guide to the Economy and How We Can Fix It
Dr Cahal Moran – Visiting Fellow, Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science, London School of Economics and Political Science
Mon 15th Sept, 6-7pm, CLT
Being Human in the age of AI
Baroness Susan Greenfield CBE – Senior Research Fellow at Lincoln College, Oxford
Mon 22nd Sept, 6-7pm, GS
Reporting a Divided World: Stories, Struggles, and Shifting Truths
Aleem Maqbool – Lead Religion Correspondent, BBC News
Mon 29th Sept – WEEKEND LEAVE
Mon 6th Oct, 6-7pm, GS
Britain’s Place in the World: The view from Channel 5’s Newsroom
Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije – Lead News Presenter, 5 News Tonight (Channel 5)
Mon 13th Oct, 6-7pm, GS
When did we forget freedom?
Lord Hannon – Conservative Party International Secretary
Mon 20th Oct – HALF TERM EXEAT
Mon 27th Oct – HALF TERM EXEAT
Mon 3rd Nov, 6-7pm, GS
The Future Global Economic Outlook: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Professor Graeme Leach – British economist, CEO and Chief Economist of Macronomics
Mon 10th Nov, 6-7pm, GS
Public Policy for Culture
Lord Chris Smith – Master of Pembroke College, Cambridge
Mon 17th Nov, 6-7pm, GS
Crazy/Brave Leadership: How South African Rugby Reclaimed Its Future and Redefined Success
Bob Skinstad – Former South African Rugby Union Captain and World Cup Winner
Mon 24th Nov – WEEKEND LEAVE
Mon 1st Dec, 6-7pm, GS
Allies at War: The Politics of Defeating Hitler with important lessons for our own age
Tim Bouverie – British historian and former political journalist
Mon 9th Dec – LAST WEEK OF TERM
Previous Fireside Talks
Click on a poster to view the larger PDF.
