Our Wider Curriculum

At Wilmslow High School, we believe education extends beyond the classroom. Our Wider Curriculum is a vital part of our Whole Curriculum, empowering students to grow as confident, capable individuals ready for life beyond school. It includes everything offered by the school outside of the Formal Curriculum (both within and beyond the school day).

Personal development is the goal — shaping students’ values, behaviours, and readiness for life.
The wider curriculum is one of the means through which that goal is achieved.

Through sport, the arts, leadership roles, volunteering and enrichment activities, students are encouraged to explore new interests, discover their passions, and develop essential skills such as resilience, creativity and teamwork.

Whether taking part in clubs, performing, competing, or leading others, our Wider Curriculum provides meaningful opportunities that complement academic learning and support every student to grow, achieve and thrive — we want every student to ‘Do More’.

The 8 Components of our Wider Curriculum

At Wilmslow High School, we believe strong citizenship is key to preparing students for life in a diverse and connected world. Our Citizenship programme empowers students to play an active role in school and society, building empathy, responsibility and social awareness.

Through community service, student leadership, and participation in school councils, students develop the confidence to engage with real-world issues, respect differing views, and contribute positively to their communities.

We promote teamwork, ethical behaviour, and inclusive values — helping students grow not just as learners, but as compassionate, informed and globally-minded citizens.

The wellbeing of students is central to their overall development. Physical and mental health are interconnected, and when students are supported in both areas, they are better equipped to handle academic pressures, build positive relationships, and grow into confident, resilient individuals. A focus on wellbeing helps students to maintain a positive mindset, increase motivation, and perform better in their studies.

Supporting students’ physical and mental wellbeing is vital for their academic success and overall happiness. When students feel mentally and physically healthy, they are more engaged, motivated, and capable of achieving their goals. Furthermore, by prioritizing wellbeing, Wilmslow High School is preparing students to face the challenges of life beyond school, equipping them with the resilience and coping strategies they need for the future.

Helping students understand their strengths, passions, and career options is crucial in today’s competitive world. Early exposure to various career paths, professional skills, and real-world experiences can inspire students to set ambitious goals, make informed decisions about their futures, and build the confidence needed to pursue their dreams. At Wilmslow High School, we believe that every student deserves the guidance and support to unlock their full potential and achieve their aspirations.

Supporting students’ aspirations and career development is key to their long-term success and fulfillment. By providing guidance, opportunities, and resources, we empower students to take ownership of their futures and pursue careers that align with their interests and talents. Careers education helps students develop the confidence to navigate the world of work, while also teaching them the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and personal growth.

The ‘Relationships’ component of the wider curriculum is an essential part of both personal development and students’ social and emotional education. It aligns with statutory Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) requirements and is delivered through multiple channels to ensure students build healthy, respectful, and responsible relationships in all aspects of life.

It goes far beyond compliance. It is about equipping students with the knowledge, values, and skills to:

Form positive, respectful connections
Recognise and navigate complexities in relationships
Build emotional intelligence, empathy, and personal responsibility

It is embedded across lessons, assemblies, pastoral care, enrichment, and the school culture — all underpinned by the school’s values of PRIDE.

At Wilmslow High School, we believe that education is about more than just academic achievement. That’s why we offer a wide range of ‘Xtra’ Curricular Clubs, Visits, and Enriching Opportunities to help students grow, explore their interests, and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. These activities complement the formal curriculum and provide students with opportunities to discover new passions, broaden their horizons, and build lasting memories.

Getting involved in ‘Xtra’ curricular activities is not only fun but also essential for personal and academic growth. From taking part in after-school clubs to engaging in educational trips and special projects, students can enrich their school experience in a variety of ways.

At Wilmslow High School, we believe that reading for pleasure is one of the most enriching and rewarding experiences a student can have. Encouraging students to read beyond the classroom curriculum fosters a love of learning, enhances creativity, and supports personal development. By getting involved in reading for pleasure, students can escape into new worlds, develop critical thinking skills, and improve their academic performance. We offer a variety of opportunities to help students explore the joy of reading and experience the many benefits it brings.

At Wilmslow High School, we empower students to make a positive impact — in school, the local community, and the wider world. Through leadership, volunteering and sustainability projects, students develop a strong sense of purpose, responsibility and global awareness.

Making a Difference at School

Student Leadership
Students influence school life through roles in the School Council, clubs and peer mentoring, learning how to lead, collaborate and drive change.
Kindness & Inclusion
Anti-bullying campaigns and peer support programmes promote respect and create a caring, inclusive environment.
School Projects & Events
From fundraising to school-wide campaigns, students shape our school culture and build strong connections across the community.

Making a Difference Locally

Community Volunteering
Students give back by supporting local charities, food banks and service projects, developing empathy and life skills.
Environmental Action
Sustainability initiatives like recycling, tree planting and awareness campaigns help students lead change on climate and conservation.
Local Partnerships
Collaboration with charities, businesses and local organisations gives students real-world opportunities to contribute and learn

Making a Difference Globally

Global Citizenship Education
Lessons and discussions on climate change, poverty, and human rights build students’ understanding of international issues and their role in addressing them.
Fundraising for Global Causes
Students support international charities through events and initiatives, showing solidarity and compassion beyond borders.
International Connections
Partnerships with schools overseas give students the chance to collaborate, share ideas, and gain a broader world view.

At Wilmslow High School, we believe that leadership and service are key to helping students develop valuable life skills, build confidence, and make a positive impact on their community. Through a wide range of leadership opportunities and service-oriented activities, students are encouraged to take on responsibilities, lead by example, and contribute to the wellbeing of others—both within the school and in the wider community. These experiences not only enrich students’ personal growth but also prepare them for success in their future careers and life beyond school.

Fundamental British Values

At Wilmslow High School, we are committed to empowering students to become active, respectful, and responsible citizens. By embedding the Fundamental British Values into daily school life, we help students develop a strong sense of social responsibility and prepare them for life in modern Britain.

These values underpin our school culture and are explored across the curriculum, through assemblies, student leadership, and enrichment activities.

Democracy
Students learn about fairness, participation and having a voice through School Council, Student Parliament, debates, and curriculum subjects like History and RS.
Rule of Law
We promote an understanding of rules, justice and accountability through behaviour expectations, The Wilmslow Way, and discussions about rights and responsibilities.
Individual Liberty
Students are supported to make informed choices, express their views, and explore their identities through Personal Development lessons and enrichment opportunities.
Mutual Respect
Our school culture encourages kindness, listening and empathy. Students learn to value others’ opinions, backgrounds and contributions.
Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Through PSHE, curriculum learning and inclusive school events, students explore diverse religions and worldviews, developing respect for all cultures and communities.

By living these values every day, students are supported to:

Understand how society works and their role within it
Engage with the wider world with empathy and awareness
Make informed, responsible decisions
Feel a strong sense of belonging in an inclusive community

These values are not taught in isolation – they are woven into school life through:

Student Leadership: School Council, Student Parliament and peer-led initiatives
Workshops & Events: Mock elections, global citizenship days, and MUN Club
Community Engagement: Coffee and Carols, charity collections, and volunteering

Citizenship

We promote teamwork, ethical behaviour, and inclusive values — helping students grow not just as learners, but as compassionate, informed and globally-minded citizens.

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Our Wider Curriculum