Stretch

Stretch Projects

Stretch projects help to develop students’ autonomy, oracy and love of learning. It is an important part of the curriculum. Each student explores an area of interest within a given theme and exhibits their work to peers, families and the community at the end of each cycle during stretch final day.

During each 13 week cycle, students work independently to research, prepare and practise their presentation. Students have discreet lectures to support them through this process and can seek support from their advisor and belay partner. Students are expected to spend 90 minutes a week preparing their presentation.

Stretch topics vary from e.g. ‘cultural’ to a personal project on ‘aspiration’. They undertake a number of stretch projects in each peak, culminating in the speaking and listening component of their English GCSE.

During stretch final day, we invite a panel of judges to score the finalists based on a number of stretch standards including the quality and depth of their research; the clarity and organisation of their presentation; and their ability to reflect on their learning and achievement.

Stretch Lectures

Stretch lectures give our students the opportunity to extend their knowledge far beyond the national curriculum. Each week, students in the middle peak engage in lectures from teachers on topics such as history of art, politics, economics and STEM. This glimpse in to university style lectures paired with topics not normally covered in the curriculum, support our students building a broad and deep knowledge base.