Exploring Every Passion: Personal Growth Beyond the Classroom

For those who may not know me, I am Paul Isted, Assistant Head (Organisation) at Bromley High School, responsible for our extensive co-curricular programme. Working closely with colleagues across the school, my role is to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to flourish beyond the classroom and to benefit from the rich range of activities that form such an important part of life at Bromley High School.

Firstly, good luck to our under 16 Kent County Netball Champions this Sunday as they compete at Regionals – we will all be cheering you on. Seeing pupils perform at this level while balancing the academic demands of GCSE courses is a powerful reminder of what young people can achieve when they are supported to develop both inside and outside the classroom.

That same sense of pride was felt just over a month ago during our school production of Beauty and the Beast. Directed by our Drama, Dance, and Music departments, the production was of such quality that I would happily have paid to see it in the West End. While we are fortunate to have several outstanding solo performers, what impressed me most was the sheer breadth of involvement. Pupils of all abilities contributed, collaborated, and grew together – something that truly reflects the spirit of co-curricular life at Bromley High School.

At Bromley High School, we firmly believe that education extends well beyond examination results. Our co-curricular programme is deliberately designed to develop essential life skills such as teamwork, time management, resilience, and leadership. These skills are nurtured through participation in sport, music, drama, art, academic societies, and service-based activities, playing a vital role in shaping girls into confident, well-rounded young women.

Life at Bromley High School is undoubtedly busy. A huge range of clubs, societies, and house activities ensures that every girl can find her passion. Academic societies encourage pupils to explore subjects beyond the syllabus, debate challenging issues, engage with academics, and enter national competitions. In sport, we offer training and fixtures across our main sports throughout the year, ensuring inclusion and opportunity for all.

This term alone has seen trips to Cadbury World, Six the Musical, and Back to the Future, while our debate team continues its campaign to reclaim the ESU Public Speaking Trophy, last won in 2023. Almost all girls participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Year 10, with many progressing to Silver and Gold in the Sixth Form. While expeditions often receive the spotlight, it is the ongoing volunteering and skills work that quietly makes a remarkable impact – collectively contributing over 2,000 hours of volunteering each year.

The easiest way to explore these opportunities is through SOCs available on the school portal. I would encourage every pupil to try something new, take a risk, and get involved. It is through these experiences that confidence is built, passions are discovered, and lifelong skills are developed – preparing girls not just for exams, but for life beyond school.