Our programme of extra-curricular activities is rich and varied and very much part of the Thomas Mills ethos. Many of our staff are generous contributors to this in some way.
Competitive sport
There is a very strong tradition of competitive sport, with over 200 matches and tournaments each year at inter-school and inter-house level. Clubs are run at lunchtimes for both competitive sports and social activities throughout the year. School fixtures take place after school and house fixtures culminate with a Sports Day in July. The PE Department also organises regular trips to watch elite level sport as well as the annual ski trip.
Drama and Music
The school Drama productions are always one of the highlights of the year for students, parents and staff and have earned an excellent reputation.
We are particularly proud of the quality and variety of extra-curricular Music. Five choirs, two orchestras and numerous other instrumental ensembles provide opportunities for young musicians to perform at various concerts, competitions and on music tours abroad.
Whilst we have watched many talented students progress through the school and go on to further musical education and careers, our ethos is that music and drama is for all and the skills learned from performing are great life lessons.
Leadership opportunities
There are plenty of opportunities for students to exercise responsibility in leadership at many levels. This may include taking on the role of senior students in the sixth form, being a member of one of the school councils, helping to organise Charity Day or being part of the paired reading and literacy schemes. Undertaking Language Leader and Sports Leader courses are also ways in which students learn to engage with their peers.
Duke of Edinburgh Award
A large number of students work towards the bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award with weekend expeditions in the local area and further afield. Students can begin the bronze award in Year 9, silver in year 10 and gold across years 12 and 13.
Educational trips
There are numerous educational trips, some of which are local, and others, which include two well-established language exchanges, enable students to experience life and culture not just in Europe. There have even been expeditions to places as diverse as Botswana, Peru and Madagascar in recent years. Borneo is the next destination in 2024.
