The role of the More Able Programme is to facilitate the development of a number of individuals that have shown a particular aptitude in one or more subjects.  These individuals are not only gifted in terms of their academic ability, but they have also demonstrated an enthusiasm and interest in various subjects, and have shown real potential to develop.  Selection of pupils for the More Able Programme is done through academic review of assessment and examination results, as well as through discussion with teachers and Department Heads.  Provision for these individuals is fundamental in enabling them to further develop the Jesuit Pupil Profile Virtues.

Pupils on the More Able Programme should be looking to partake in ‘super-curricular’ activities across a wide range of subjects.  Whereas we are all used to the term ‘extra-curricular’, ‘super-curricular’ means further work and investigation related to a particular area of academic study.  This might come in the form of additional podcasts, lectures or wider academic reading.  Pupils will find general advice on how to pursue their ‘super-curricular’ interests below, as well as subject-by-subject suggestions.  

More Able Programme pupils are expected to develop their independent learning skills through being proactive in following up on these ‘super-curricular’ suggestions.  At the same time, they should expect to be stretched and challenged in the classroom, as well as being given opportunities to further their learning through school-arranged speakers, activities and trips.

For example, in the academic year 2021-2022, More Able Programme pupils across different years benefited from a visiting speaker from the Bank of England, visited the Old Bailey, watched ‘Julius Caesar’ at The Globe, and took part in Jack Petchey Speak-Out workshops. They also attended a Model United Nations conference as delegates for various different countries.  Our hope is that through these opportunities, we can also encourage aspiration, and More Able Programme pupils, as well as others, may go on to our sixth-form Oxbridge programme.  This will prepare them not only for Oxbridge, but also for putting together strong applications to Russell Group universities and other institutions.  Last year Wimbledon College was delighted that five of its Rhetoric (Year 13) pupils received Oxbridge offers. 

The opportunities are there for all pupils of the school, particularly those on the More Able Programme, to further their own interests and understanding.  Act now by using the links on the school website to search for these super-curricular opportunities!  Or talk to us if you spot an opportunity yourself, and we will see if we can organise our school’s participation.