What is Enrichment?

Education is more than just mastering English and maths – it’s also about activities that extend children’s learning through new experiences and opportunities.

Enrichment week at St Christopher’s is a highlight for all our pupils, giving them a chance to step away from their usual timetables and immerse themselves in school life outside of the classroom.

If you look back to your own schooldays, what do you remember most fondly? Mastering time tables or a school trip?

Enrichment makes a subject more meaningful, or rewarding, and allows them opportunities to explore and use their imaginations. It helps provide children with a rounded education through activities that enhance their learning.

Enrichment week can also help teach life skills that benefit children beyond the classroom. It helps them develop character, resilience and motivation and encourages them to pursue wider goals.

St Christopher’s enrichment week takes place from May 22 to 26, and with so many exciting places to visit and experiences to enjoy in Devon, we are always really spoilt for choice. In previous years we’ve enjoyed time in the Haldon Forest, followed by a go on the high Ropes at Go Ape. We’ve been to Kents Cavern to learn about the lives of Stone Aged people. A two night residential at the Start Bay Centre, Slapton included a tour of the Britannia Royal Navy College in Dartmouth. Occombe Farm, Stover Country Park and fabulous fun days at Woodlands have all been on the agenda.

Dartmoor, beaches, countryside, farms, rivers, caves, lakes, woodland and wildlife that make up the Devon countryside all provide a playground for brilliant experiences allowing children to discover and explore the world around them.

We find that whatever challenges children at St Christopher’s might meet during enrichment week, they take it all in their stride, and it really enhances and develops their social, moral, cultural and spiritual development.

The children gain confidence and independence and often, the discoveries they make at grassroots level lead to a lifelong interest.