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 Lent term can also be downloaded here (Excel Spreadsheet).
various talks and discussions related to Law. Periodic guest speakers to discuss interesting cases and careers.
A group discussing various issues from a feminist perspective whilst considering the perspective of all in the Wellington community. (Moral Room, Library)
a discussion group aimed at bringing people of all races together to discuss societial issues. (Logical Room, Library)
lots of challenging ideas to stretch your understanding of chemistry in this advanced group.
discuss biology and medical research over snacks.
series of presentations on a range of different topic delivered by students, staff & external speaker
build robots, learn how to code, solve fun logic puzzles, and gain useful team building skills
lots of challenging questions and problems to solve in this advanced group.
MathsSoc – challenging problems, preparation for the Maths Challenges, and practice sessions for the College Maths team
hispanic topics through advanced grammar.
Improve your spanish through fun games, suitable for beginners and advanced.
Practice debating in spanish with the opportunity to compete against other schools.
student-led discussion group focusing on economics in the news
train and compete in academic simulations of the United Nations.
range of fun and intellectually electrifying history themed activities: discussions; lectures; quizzing; presentations.
discussions about human behaviour, relationships, social problems, scientific discoveries including practical experiments, visiting speakers and a trip.
devoted to all things Classical, delving into ancient literature, philosophy, language, history, art, archaeology and everything in between.
learn what drives stock market valuations and take part in trading simulations
delve into the world of business through reading-based interactive discussions, successful entrepreneurs coming in as speakers and business-related competitions.
thought-provoking, inspiring talks which encourage our students to engage with topics beyond the normal curriculum and question their preconceptions
hone your debating skills with expert tuition and practice. All welcome from beginners to experts and anything in between.
one-off talks on exciting literary topics with a range of speakers.
a chance to experiment with a range of writing techniques and enjoy the versatility of language.
an auditioned group for future dancers to extend both their skill and understanding of dance and performance
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.
Lent Term 2024
New Time: 5.45-6.45pm
JANUARY
Mon 15th (GS)
Jake Meyer, World record breaking mountaineer.
Taming the Savage Mountain’
Mon 22nd (GS)
Dr Arianne Shahvisi, Author & Senior Lecturer in Ethics, Brighton and Sussex Medical School
Arguing for a Better World
Mon 29th (Weekend Leave)
FEBRUARY
Mon 5th (GS)
Dr Lewis Dartnell, Author, presenter and astrobiology research scientist at the University of Westminster
Being Human: How Our Biology Shaped World History
Mon 12th (Half Term)
Mon 19th (DLR)
Prof Carl Heneghan, Director of the University of Oxford’s Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine
‘Pandemic Planning’ what should we do differently next time
Mon 26th (DLR)
Kate Ferry, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director at Burberry
Inside Burberry – the inner workings of the luxury fashion industry
MARCH
Mon 4th (Weekend Leave)
Mon 11th (GS)
OW Elite Sportswomen Panel
Empowering Excellence: Inspiring Stories of Elite Sportswomen