TDS Extra-curricular 2026/2027

Clubs & Activities A group of people standing next to a dog AI-generated content may be incorrect. A child wearing safety goggles and holding a stick with steam coming out of a small object AI-generated content may be incorrect. STEM A person lying under a tent AI-generated content may be incorrect. Cultural, Global & Societal Awareness A person looking at a piece of paper AI-generated content may be incorrect. Drama & Oracy Sport A child holding a basketball AI-generated content may be incorrect. Music A person playing a violin AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Introduction to Extra-curricular Extra-curricular clubs are activities that take place outside of normal lesson time, giving pupils the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills and meet like-minded peers. These may include sports teams, debate societies, music groups, drama productions, STEM clubs, creative arts, volunteering programmes and many other enrichment opportunities. Through participation, pupils are encouraged to demonstrate our core values of respect, resilience and aspiration, both within and beyond the school community. Attending extra-curricular clubs is an important part of personal development. Pupils learn to show respect by working collaboratively with others, valuing different perspectives and contributing positively to their teams and groups. They develop resilience by overcoming challenges, persevering when faced with setbacks and stepping outside their comfort zones to try new experiences. Clubs also nurture aspiration, encouraging pupils to pursue their passions, set ambitious goals and recognise their potential for future success. Participation in enrichment activities helps pupils build confidence, strengthen friendships and enhance their wellbeing, while also developing valuable teamwork, leadership and communication skills. These experiences demonstrate commitment, initiative and a willingness to engage with the wider school community. As a result, pupils become more confident, well-rounded young people, better prepared for college, university, apprenticeships and future employment. At The Duston School, extra-curricular clubs run in 3 groups, with a different programme of activities in each term. • Term 1 (September-December) • Term 2 (January-Easter) • Term 3 (April-July)

Clubs & Activities TDS Extra-curricular Activity Day Creative Writing Club Monday Let your imagination run wild at Creative Writing Club! Open to all year groups, this club is the perfect place for anyone who enjoys storytelling, poetry, world-building or simply putting pen to paper. You'll take part in fun writing games, creative challenges and inspiring activities designed to spark new ideas and help you become a more confident writer. Whether you dream of writing novels, creating fantasy worlds or just enjoy being creative, you'll have the opportunity to develop your skills, share your work and meet other pupils who love writing. All you need is enthusiasm, imagination and a willingness to try something new! English as an Additional Language Tuesday The EAL After-School Club is open to any Year 10 or Year 11 pupil who has English as an Additional Language and would benefit from extra support in preparing for their GCSE English Language examinations. The club provides targeted academic support, helping pupils develop their reading, writing, vocabulary, and exam skills while building confidence in using English in an academic context. Sessions offer a quiet and supportive environment where pupils can revise independently, receive guidance on specific areas of difficulty, practise exam-style questions, and ask for individual help with coursework or revision materials. The club runs once a week on Tuesday and is led by the EAL Coordinator, who tailors support to the individual needs of pupils. Additional resources, revision activities, and past paper practice are provided to help pupils maximise their progress and feel well prepared for their exams.

Clubs & Activities Activity Day Book Club Wednesday Do you love to read? Or are you looking to enjoy reading again? TDS Book Club is a wonderful opportunity for pupils in KS3 and KS4 to discover and explore new books and genres, to share books with others and is a great opportunity to make new friends while discussing our favourite books and current reads while eating a biscuit or two! Book club is an inclusive and fun environment and whether you read the classics, mystery and adventure, graphic novels or manga; book club is a space for you to enjoy all aspects of reading. Colouring/Mindfulness Wednesday Colouring & Mindfulness Club is a friendly, relaxing space where pupils can take a break from the busy school day, get creative and focus on their wellbeing. Open to all pupils, the club includes mindful colouring, creative activities and simple techniques to help reduce stress and improve focus. Whether you enjoy being artistic or simply want a calm place to unwind, everyone is welcome. Come along, relax and enjoy some time just for you! Warhammer Club Thursday Warhammer is a creative tabletop hobby where pupils build and paint their own miniature armies, bringing imaginative worlds to life. It helps children develop model making skills, patience and attention to detail while having fun. Pupils can learn the basics of tabletop gaming and work together to plan battles and strategies. The club is a great place to make friends, share ideas and enjoy a positive, hands on activity after school. TDS Extra-curricular

Clubs & Activities TDS Extra-curricular Activity Day Rocco Club (School Dog) Thursday Rocco Club is an after-school wellbeing club that provides pupils with the opportunity to spend time with Rocco, the school's therapy dog, in a safe, structured and supportive environment. The club is designed to promote: • Emotional wellbeing and positive mental health. • Confidence, self-esteem and social skills. • Calmness, relaxation and emotional regulation. • Positive relationships and communication skills. • Responsibility, empathy and respect for animals. Activities may include: • Supervised interaction with Rocco. • Reading to the therapy dog to build confidence skills. • Dog care and handling activities. • Wellbeing and mindfulness exercises. • Group games, discussion and social interaction. All sessions are supervised by appropriately trained staff and follow the school's therapy dog risk assessment, safeguarding procedures and animal welfare guidelines.

TDS Extra-curricular STEM Activity Day STEM club Wednesday Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Club (STEM Club) is an extracurricular opportunity on Wednesdays after school where you will learn new techniques and skills relating to these subjects. Some weeks it will be fun science experiments, other weeks coding in the IT rooms. Some sessions we will get the big engineering kits out and others we’ll see who can solve maths puzzles and present their findings. Last year – our first STEM club year – we even used the time to partake in the Invasive Canal Challenge and won third place out of all the schools that partook! If you’re looking for something where every week will feel different and unique, this is the place to be.

Cultural, Global & Societal Awareness TDS Extra-curricular Activity Day LGBTQ+ Tuesday lunch-time (drop-in) CCF (Cadet force) Tuesday

TDS Extra-curricular Drama & Oracy Activity Day Musical Theatre Group Wednesday Do you love going to the theatre? Or singing your heart out to some showtunes? At Musical Theatre we work on a small-scale musical with a view to put on a performance for friends and family in the Spring Term. As with all musical extra-curricular activities, you will earn yourself house points and contribute to the Music Character Award when you commit to attending one of our groups. Debate Club Wednesday Do you enjoy sharing your opinions, discussing interesting issues or persuading others? Debate Club is open to pupils in Years 9 and 10 who would like to build their confidence, communication and critical- thinking skills. Activities include fun speaking games, team challenges and structured debates on thought-provoking topics, with opportunities to consider different viewpoints and respond to opposing arguments. No previous debating experience is needed, just a willingness to get involved, listen to others and have your say!

Drama & Oracy Activity Day Drama Club Thursday TDS Drama Club is the perfect opportunity to take part in a range of fun and engaging activities, including improvisation, acting challenges, script work, storytelling and movement. The club is a supportive and welcoming space where pupils can experiment with new ideas, develop their performance skills, and work collaboratively with others. Drama Club is not just about acting. It is an excellent way to build confidence, improve communication skills, develop creativity, and make new friends while having lots of fun along the way. Whether you dream of performing on stage or simply want to enjoy something different after school, we'd love to see you there! TDS Extra-curricular

Sport Activity Day Boys Junior Football (Y7) Monday Boys Intermediate Football (Y9/10) Tuesday Boys Senior Football (Y10/11) Wednesday Girls Football Friday Passionate about football? Football Club provides pupils with the opportunity to develop their skills, improve their fitness and prepare for competitive fixtures through engaging training sessions. During Term 1, the club is open to all pupils, with a focus on participation, enjoyment and helping every player progress; from Term 2 onwards, squad numbers are reduced as we prepare for league and cup competitions. Whether you're looking to improve your game, represent the school or simply enjoy playing football with friends, Football Club is the perfect place to get involved and challenge yourself. Girls Junior Netball (Y7) Tuesday Girls Intermediate Netball (Y8/9) Monday Girls Senior Netball (Y10/11) Wednesday Looking for a fun, fast-paced team sport? Netball Club is a fantastic way to make new friends, stay active and be part of a supportive team environment where players of all abilities are welcome. Through training sessions and friendly competition, pupils will develop their coordination, confidence and overall fitness while learning the skills and tactics needed to succeed in this dynamic game. With opportunities to be selected for league fixtures, tournaments and even one of our popular annual netball residentials, Netball Club is an exciting and rapidly growing club that offers something for everyone. TDS Extra-curricular

Sport Activity Day Junior Basketball (Y7/8) Tuesday Senior Basketball (Y9/10) Monday Enjoy basketball and want to take your game to the next level? Basketball Club offers pupils the chance to develop their skills, improve their fitness and grow in confidence through fun, engaging training sessions. During Term 1, the club is open to all pupils, with a focus on participation, enjoyment and helping every player improve; from Term 2 onwards, squad numbers are reduced as we prepare for competitive fixtures in the Year 7 and 8 Central Venue League and the Year 9 and 10 Town League. This year, we are excited to be working in partnership with the Titans Foundation, with Coach Matt supporting PE staff to deliver high-quality coaching and player development opportunities, making Basketball Club a fantastic place to improve as a player, work as part of a team and enjoy the sport with friends. Cross Country Tuesday Enjoy being active and challenging yourself outdoors? Cross Country Club is a fantastic opportunity for pupils of all abilities to improve their endurance, fitness and resilience through a range of fun and engaging running activities. With a particular focus during the autumn term, sessions are designed to gradually build confidence and stamina in a supportive environment where everyone can progress at their own pace. Pupils may also earn the opportunity to represent the school in events such as the Town Cross Country Championships and the ESAA Cross Country Cup, making Cross Country Club a great way to get fit, make friends and enjoy the challenge of running. TDS Extra-curricular

Sport Activity Day Choreography & Dance Group (Y7/8) Tuesday Love dancing and creating your own routines? Come along to our Dance and Choreography Group! You’ll learn new moves, work with others to create routines and have the chance to develop your confidence and creativity. No previous dance experience needed, just enthusiasm and a willingness to have a go! Wear comfortable clothes and trainers. For information ask Mrs Dellar-Moy Badminton Wednesday Looking to pick up a racket and learn a new sport? Badminton Club is a great opportunity for pupils to develop the core skills, techniques and tactical understanding needed to enjoy and succeed in the game. Sessions combine skill-based practices with friendly matches and competitions, helping pupils learn the rules and strategies of both singles and doubles badminton. Pupils will also have the chance to represent the school at Northampton School Sport Partnership events, testing themselves against players from other schools in an exciting tournament environment. Duke of Edinburgh Friday Sessions are initially aimed at pupils working towards their Bronze Award. Participants will learn everything they need to successfully complete each section of the award, including volunteering, physical activity, skills, and expedition requirements. A key focus of the programme is the Expedition Section, where pupils will develop essential outdoor skills such as navigation, map reading, route planning, campcraft, and teamwork. These skills will prepare them to confidently navigate and work collaboratively during their expedition in open countryside. Sessions will run for the full academic year, with enrolment closing in October. Unfortunately, no new participants can join after this date. Information regarding Silver and Gold Award sessions will be shared at a later stage. TDS Extra-curricular

Music Activity Day Choir Tuesday AM & Thursday PM Like singing? Like meeting new people? Then Choir is for you! We meet twice a week (you can attend one or both) and sing a variety of different songs together, from Christmas carols to Taylor Swift to Matilda. The Choir gets to perform as various events throughout the school year, including the Christmas Fair, Christmas Concert, Summer Showcase and performing to residents of local care homes. We are a warm and friendly bunch, and many friendships are formed at rehearsals and events. As with all musical extra-curricular activities, you will earn yourself house points and contribute to the Music Character Award when you commit to attending one of our groups. Keyboard Club Tuesday Interested in learning the keyboard? Keyboards Club is open to pupils who would like to develop their playing skills. Pupils will learn basic techniques, play a variety of pieces and build their confidence as musicians. Previous keyboard experience is helpful and having a keyboard or piano at home is also beneficial so you can practise what you have learned between sessions. All enthusiastic pupils are welcome. Orchestra Club Wednesday AM Do you play an instrument? Whether you’re a beginner or an old hand you are warmly welcomed to join Orchestra! Every term we work on a couple of pieces to perform at school music events, from traditional orchestral pieces to pop song medleys. Whatever your ability, a part will be created for you. As with all musical extra-curricular activities, you will earn yourself house points and contribute to the Music Character Award when you commit to attending one of our groups. TDS Extra-curricular

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