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 2026 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 rotating schedule of creative taster sessions led by specialist staff in the Art School. From clay to collage, analogue photography to screen printing.
Learn the basis of Arabic conversation, how to write and read as well as about different aspects of the Arabic Speaking World.
an introduction to the Classical world with quizzes, debates and activities.
A chance to deepen their scientific understanding through hands-on experiments, problem-solving, and real-world chemistry in action.
open to all – challenge yourself! A blend of grammar, Hispanic texts and also guidance for the prestigious Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators (this club is a must for students who have aspirations to do Spanish at University)
discussions, debates and talks on current affairs, political ideas and global issues.
Love languages? Come and join the brand-new MFL Magazine Club! Create, write, and design exciting content to celebrate languages and cultures worldwide!
train and compete in academic simulations of the United Nations.
a place to explore French culture and engage in conversations.
A group discussing various issues from a feminist perspective whilst considering the perspective of all in the Wellington community. (Moral Room, Library)
elevate your communication skills in French and broaden your horizon.
challenging problems, preparation for the Maths Challenges, and practice sessions for the College Maths team.
student-led little introductions to big topics in Geography.
for students with a passion for Biology and an interest in pursuing careers in healthcare and related fields. The programe includes guest speakers, practical activities and discussions on the latest developments in Biology.
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.
explore big philosophy questions.
Offers a chance to explore university-level philosophical ideas, sharpen your critical thinking, and engage with challenging questions in a university-style seminar setting.
an auditioned group for dancers to challenge themselves.
explore, discuss, and share ideas about architecture and design.
Take a look at the top news stories and learn more about what is going on in the world. Explore the big stories shaping your future.
discussions about human behaviour, relationships, social problems, scientific discoveries including practical experiments.
Taller de Español – 4th & 5th Form (4.30pm) and 6th Form (5.00pm). Support and extension for all areas of Spanish- especially grammar and translation skills for GCSE and skill based activities to support learning for IB
Discussions and talks about history of art and visual cultures.
practice debating in Spanish with the opportunity to compete against other schools throughout the year, including in the national competition. An amazing fun- filled way to improve your fluency and confidence in Spanish.
a chance to experiment with a range of writing techniques and enjoy the versatility of language.
lots of challenging ideas to stretch your understanding of chemistry in this advanced group.
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.
a chance to develop observational skills through working from the nude model a core discipline for any aspiring artist.
a weekly Soc screening and discussing films.
producing, directing and performing a Spanish play in Spanish at the National Hispanic Theatre competition. HL and A Level students only.
prepare a short play extract for a regional competition.
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
January – February 2026
Mon 12th January, 6-7pm, CLT
Smartphones to Burgers: The Human Edge in an AI World
Sir Charles Dunstone – British Entrepreneur and Founder of Carphone Warehouse
Mon 19th January, 6-7pm, CLT
Refugee Tales: Walking, Sharing Stories and the Politics of Human Rights’
Professor David Herd – Professor of Literature and Human Rights at the University of St Andrews
Mon 26th January – WEEKEND LEAVE
Mon 2nd February, 6-7pm, GS
AI and the future of Mathematics?
Professor Yang-Hui He – Fellow of the London Institute and Lecturer in Mathematics at Merton College, University of Oxford
Mon 9th February, 6-7pm, GS
Exile Economics: what happens if globalisation fails
Ben Chu – BBC Correspeondant and Author
Previous Fireside Talks
Click on a poster to view the larger PDF.
