Sixth Form Plus
Supercurricular activities are no longer optional extras—they are a key part of preparing for university and beyond.
Sixth Form Plus
Achieving strong A-level grades is essential—but for competitive university courses, it is no longer enough on its own.
Universities are increasingly looking for pupils who go beyond the curriculum:
- Exploring subjects independently
- Demonstrating intellectual curiosity
- Engaging with the wider world
These activities are known as supercurriculars.
At Stafford Grammar School, we don’t leave this to chance. We provide a structured programme that supports every pupil in building a strong academic profile alongside their A-level studies.
What Are Supercurricular Activities?
Supercurricular activities are academic extensions of your chosen subjects.
They are not the same as extracurricular activities (such as sport or music). Instead, they focus on:
- Deepening subject knowledge
- Exploring university-level ideas
- Developing independent thinking
Examples include:
- Reading beyond the syllabus
- Completing online university courses (MOOCs)
- Writing an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
- Attending lectures or workshops
- Conducting independent research
Why Do Supercurriculars Matter?
For competitive courses such as Medicine, Law, and Oxbridge applications, universities are looking for:
- Evidence of genuine interest in the subject
- The ability to think critically and independently
- A willingness to go beyond what is taught in lessons
Supercurricular engagement helps pupils:
- Write stronger personal statements
- Perform better in interviews
- Stand out in competitive applicant pools
Our Structured Approach
All pupils taking three A Levels take part in Sixth Form Plus, a timetabled session each week dedicated to supercurricular development.
This provides:
- Protected time for independent work
- Guidance from staff
- A structured framework for progress
Pupils use this time to:
- Work on EPQs
- Complete online courses
- Develop subject-specific projects
The Advantage of a Small Sixth Form
Supercurricular success depends on guidance and accountability.
With class sizes of 5–10 pupils, we are able to:
- Provide individual advice
- Monitor progress closely
- Adapt support to each pupil’s goals
This ensures that supercurricular activities are:
- Meaningful
- Relevant
- Impactful