Search Clubs & Societies

Students are given a hypothetical £100 to build a company from the ground up. The aim of the club is to manufacture and sell products during school events, and take costs into account to make a profit, which then goes to a chosen charity.  Real-world entrepreneurship helps them to become more confident at public speaking, to explore different manufacturing techniques; skills that can then be applied during and outside of lessons.

Mature voices who enjoy singing in close harmony, performing repertoire from the likes of the King’s Singers, the Songs of Yale and many more.

*For Advanced Singers

Students get to see and hold a variety of different animals including reptiles, mammals, amphibians, insects and more. Discussion centres around evolution, adaptations, habitat and diets. There are also regular educational quizzes and games where they get to compare different species and think about why they look the way they do.

Students have the opportunity to appreciate the design, construction and use of hives; the lifecycle of bees; their importance for pollination and their relationship with humans. There is an opportunity to join in with the making of hive parts, handling bees in the hive and extracting honey to sell. Developing wider knowledge and respect for ecology and a deepening interest in bees and their lifecycle results from their involvement with practical beekeeping alongside other students. Unfortunately, this club is not recommended for those students who regularly use an inhaler or carry an adrenalin pen.

One-to-one aural sessions are offered to pupils preparing for graded exams and auditions.

Learn about all aspects of technical theatre, including sourcing and making props and different lighting fixtures and when to use them. This club allows students to get involved in drama productions without being an actor, gaining good knowledge and experience from Whitgift’s technical crew.

An opportunity to be part of Whitgift’s first student run podcast. We will cover all the latest business and economics stories and explain them to our listeners, we are looking for sound engineers, students to write the music, script writers and of course presenters.

Fancy a quick game of Battleships with a friend? Or just want to see how tall a Jenga tower you can make? Board Game Club offers fun and relaxation every Monday lunch time.

The jewel in the crown of music at Whitgift offering challenging repertoire and opportunities for concerto performance.

*Grade 8 and above

Chill Club is a place to relax during the middle of the week; an opportunity to do activities such as mindfulness colouring, meditation and board games all whilst having a laid back chat with friends

Chinese Club is aimed mainly at students in Years 7-9.  We aim to provide an opportunity to practice and develop practical language skills with our Chinese Language Assistants so students gain confidence in their oral skills and feel ready to interact with Chinese-speakers in a Chinese-speaking environment.

We meet weekly to explore the Christian faith by reading and discussing passages from the Bible, giving students a chance to explore and discuss the Christian answer to life’s big questions. Anyone and everyone is welcome – you do not need to consider yourself a Christian to attend.

Bouldering is a low-level, rope-free sport that can be incredibly technical and athletically demanding. Sessions are held at Craggy Island, a specialist bouldering centre near Sutton. Routes are graded according to their difficulty – due to the range of climbs available, the club is suitable for beginners through to advanced climbers. A group of students compete in the Independent Schools climbing competition each year and the added dimension of competition has a positive impact on technique progression and endurance. Students also get the opportunity to practise climbing in senior games sessions, and recent trips have been run to the Peak District.

Cadets will learn about fieldcraft, skill at arms, the history of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and infantry tactics – complimented by field exercises, live firing on ranges, and camps run throughout the year. Notably, they have visited bases within the UK, where cadets went helicopter-flying with the Army Air Corps, and in Germany, where they got a taste for tank-driving with the 1st Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. 

The Corps of Drums, founded in 1905, is one of the oldest in Britain and is the only fully student-run organisation in the School. Students do not need any previous musical experience as they are taught a range of instruments by the more senior members. There are a number of events and functions at which the Corps of Drums perform throughout the year. 

Cadets will study the principles of flight and air navigation and get a chance to try out their skills in the flight simulator. The ultimate aim is to get cadets airborne as often as possible, whether as a passenger in a light aircraft or Chinook helicopter, or piloting a Grob Tutor during an Air Experience Flight. If cadets prove their aptitude for flying, they could be awarded a prestigious flying scholarship.

Cadets will develop their nautical skills and naval knowledge, supported by afloat training in Portsmouth. In recent years, we have been invited to spend time aboard aircraft carriers HMS Ocean and HMS Queen Elizabeth as well as nuclear submarines. Cadets also have the opportunity to access a wide range of national courses leading to recognised qualifications in skills such powerboating, sailing, lifeguarding and more. 

Interested in journalism and comics? Join comic club to be part of the team that creates the comic strip for the Junior Library Chronicle. Whether you fancy yourself as a comic artist, illustrator, copywriter, creative writer or art director there is plenty for you to learn and contribute at comic club.

Orchestral players enjoy a wide range of fun and exciting repertoire.

Are you a wordplay wizard? puzzle prodigy? captivated by codes? 

In collaboration with Quiz society, we present Cryptic crossword club.

For total beginners, casual solvers or curious returners, we will train you to spot and tackle all kinds of Cryptic clues. Learn skills prized by MI5 and GCHQ, test your verbal dexterity and revel in the mysterious magic of an empty grid waiting for solutions. 

This non-competitive club meets weekly to debate motions ranging from ‘This House would never negotiate with terrorists’ to ‘This House believes that aliens are real’. It offers all students an opportunity to engage with interesting issues and improve their public speaking before a packed floor of fellow students who are always eager to put their questions to the speakers.  Debating improves confidence, articulation, communication and the ability to think on one’s feet – as well as being great fun!

This group aims to promote good religious dialogue and better understanding between people of all faiths and none through sharing of Scriptures, personal experience and cultural practices.

We will aim to meet fortnightly and to focus our discussion on a particular topic.

Unlock the creative potential of your School laptop by exploring a range of digital art and design software, in particular Autodesk Sketchbook and Adobe Photoshop. Learn how to create digital artwork, make multi-layered designs, manipulate text, edit animations and much more. Don’t forget to bring your laptop!

Experience and understand why taking photographs is an art form. Improve your understanding of what makes a successful image as well as having fun and using your imagination in a range of inventive ways,  using the school surroundings and other props as inspiration. You will be using your phone camera as well and different applications on your computer to make final images.

Explore the wonderful world of drawing through experimentation with a wide variety of media and techniques. Draw from life, from pictures, from your imagination, or a mixture of all three. Students improve their drawing skills, learn new techniques, discover interesting artists and meet other like-minded draughtsmen from across the School. 

Students in the Third Form are invited to join the award and are allocated leaders who help guide them throughout the year. They undertake activities for a maximum of six months, and must keep an accurate log of their progress. The culmination of the Bronze award is a two-day expedition in the Surrey Hills, south of Dorking. Here, the campcraft and navigation skills that they have been taught during the year are utilised to good effect.

In the third and final stage of the award, students spend a minimum of 12 months in their chosen activities. In addition, they train for, plan and undertake a three-day practise expedition as well as a four-day international expedition. In recent years, these trips have included a coast-to-coast mountain bike expedition, a section of the famous Corsica GR20, and a trip to the Himalayas. The Gold award also requires students to undertake a four-night residential project. 

The Silver stage of the DofE award involves similar activities to that of Bronze, but of longer duration. The emphasis shifts towards even greater independence, and several students are asked to use the skills that they have acquired in order to help Bronze groups with their award. There are 50 places available on the Silver award and weekly sessions are held by leaders to prepare the participants for their expeditions. In order to gain experience in wilder areas of the UK, both the practise and qualifying expeditions take place much further afield, with recent trips to the Lake District and Exmoor National Park.

Aimed at those thinking about studying Economics or related degrees at Oxbridge, LSE, or top universities overseas, Economics Enrichment introduces students to higher-level Economics through seminar-style sessions on topics such as Game Theory, Institutional Economics, Economic History and The Philosophy of Economics.
The sessions are all about stretching students, exploring topics that go beyond the syllabus and discussing big picture problems to explore the relevance of economics in the modern world. This society will introduce topics and concepts that can become the foundation of a personal statement or interview for university.

This group hosts discussions and activities relating to chemistry beyond the syllabus. It also provides practical support for test and interview practice for university admissions in chemistry-related degrees, expansion of chemistry knowledge and understanding and preparation for university admissions processes – in particular for Oxbridge candidates.

Whitgift School offer two exciting opportunities for students to be involved in the fast-paced and progressive competitive experience that is E-Sports. Currently we have two games that we run weekly competitive fixtures against other schools in, Rocket League and League of Legends. Rocket League has no minimum age for playing. To be eligible for the school League of Legends team you must be in Year 10 or above.
 

Whitgift has a strong fencing programme delivered by professional fencing coaches, all of whom represented their country during their competitive careers.

All First Formers are given several taster lessons in their first year. The School has finished as 2nd overall boys’ school at the Public Schools’ Championships for the last three years, and won seven medals at the most recent British Schools Team Championships.

Former pupils have gone on to represent their country at the last six Commonwealth Fencing Championships. The co-curricular programme caters for pupils of all levels and we offer all three weapons: foil, épée and sabre

A chance to practise and develop practical language skills so that you feel ready to interact with German-speakers in a German-speaking environment.

Our aim is to foster a love of golf and provide opportunities for students to develop their passion for the game. First Form students receive eight golf lessons from our PGA Professional Tim Trodd, and all pupils have the opportunity to take part in practise sessions at the School’s golf facility. Competent golfers are able to represent the school for the U13, U15 and U18 teams who regularly compete in Regional and National competitions. In recent times leavers have accessed Golf Scholarships in the U.S and many continue to play years after leaving Whitgift.

Students will work to design and make improvements to the School’s Greenpower Car, which is entered in to a racing competition against other schools nationally. This club is the perfect pursuit for anyone thinking of pursuing a degree or career in Design, Engineering or Computer Science.

The Higher Physics group consists of students who are interested in or actively making applications to Physics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Materials Science, Earth Science, Computer Science and Chemistry at university. It follows a calendar year cycle with students enjoying trips, discussions, lectures, simulated experiments and visiting speakers in the Lent Term and problem-solving in Trinity Term. The focus of Michaelmas Term for Upper Sixth students is on writing personal statements, admissions test preparation and mock interviews.  Lower Sixth students are invited from the start of Lent Term.

A weekly meeting with a host of different activities and events. In previous years Whitgift University Challenge has been organised (the final winning team gets to play against teachers), welcomed visits from MPs and world-leading academics, and enjoyed lots
of fantastic talks from pupils. A great opportunity for students to stretch their knowledge and interest of History and Politics further and a must for students taking History or Politics at A Level who wants to continue either subject to higher education.

We investigate what we eat and how to grow simple herbs and vegetables. Students who attend gain a stronger awareness of the food we eat, learning how long it takes to produce and enjoying a little piece of calm in the middle of their busy weeks. 

A vast array of ensembles cater for pupils of all ages, disciplines and levels. Ensembles are regularly adapted or created to suit the requirements of current students.

• Flute ensembles
• French horn ensemble
• Guitar ensemble
• Mixed brass ensembles
• Percussion ensemble
• Saxophone ensemble
• String Quartets
• Trombone ensemble
• Trumpet ensemble
• Wind quintet

For students wishing to improve their ability to answer difficult 'Maths Challenge' style questions whilst developing their problem-solving skills outside of the regular curriculum, there is Intermediate Maths Society. Each week we tackle problems from previous BMO/UKMT papers and discuss the techniques and skills required to solve them. It offers students a great opportunity to pursue a different style of mathematics to what they see in lessons and also provides excellent preparation for United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT) Intermediate Mathematical Challenge and similar competitions.

Students have the opportunity to explore the world of investment and stockbroking through an interactive virtual trading game. Working in small teams using virtual money, they manage a portfolio of shares in competition with other teams across the country. The top 100 teams nationally reach the finals, with a trip to New York as the prize for the national champions. This society will teach the basics of making effective investments, the risks and rewards of financial markets, and entertain students through the competitive element of trying to outperform other teams. 

The Islamic Society caters for the academic, social and spiritual needs of all Muslims. It is also open to non-Muslims who want to come and learn about Islam. We encourage learning and discussion on Islam and current affairs between students of all faiths and none. Students who attend the society can always ask for help and get the appropriate support they need, for example counselling and coaching. Younger students benefit from attending this society because they can build friendships and learn from older students.  Furthermore, by giving our boys a space to pray, they are learning to relax, improve focus, self-reflection, build trust and faith, and generally good discipline.

The society where you can become the writers, readers, reviewers, journalists and performers of the future! This society invites those who have imagination, a sense of adventure and a love of books. Being part of this society means having the prestigious role of writing and performing for the school, being part of special events throughout the year, building confidence and making friends with like-minded people across year groups. Each week, you will have the opportunity to lead sessions and inspire the next generation of Literati. Join us every Tuesday lunch time for sweets, treats and iambic beats!

There will be a separate session for pupils in Lower First, First and Second Form and another for Third, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Forms.

Want to immerse yourself in Japan? At Japanese Pop-Culture Club we explore all areas of Japanese media - from Anime, Manga and Video games to J-pop, Vocaloids and V-tubers. Run primarily by 6th formers, this club is a must for any Weaboo or enthusiast interested in Japan and its culture!

The leading jazz ensemble for advanced players, frequently featuring at major events. The focus is on a range of repertoire from swing to funk music.

Chess Club meets to play casual chess, either blitz or rapid time controls.  Players of all standards are welcome to come along.  We take part in matches and tournaments against other schools, and a wide range of events for all level of player are available, whether you are just learning or a are a regular club player.

Junior Choir is a club for unbroken voices exploring a wide range of fun and exciting repertoire.

Students come to make friends, relax and play games together, think about the big questions of life and investigate the claims
of the Christian faith. Everybody is welcome regardless of beliefs or faith.

An opportunity for students to explore the sprawling and sometimes alien worlds of Ancient Greece and Rome. Our primary focus is on mythology and its array of weird and wonderful heroes, gods, and monsters. Activities range from making our own Greek god top trumps, to creating Greek vases out of Playdough, or watching modern versions of myths, such as Disney’s Hercules, to see how closely they align with their originals. We have occasional student visitors from Senior Classics Society to give talks on assorted classical topics.

Students are taught the basic skills of building and using clay so they can develop their own ideas for work or join in with group activities. They can make an object at each session, or work on creating an object over a period of weeks.
Apart from developing skills such as 3D design and creativity, working with clay can offer a wide range of benefits. It is easy to handle and more forgiving than other mediums and can improve self-esteem as children have control over their projects.

A weekly club where all pupils can learn and hone their drama skills in terms of improvisation, devising and characterisation. There is an emphasis on collaboration and working together to create short scenes. Games are also played here and it is the ideal setting to help increase confidence as a performer as well as team working skills. There is no commitment and it is not compulsory – some students chose to attend every week, and others whenever their other commitments allow.

Students build on creativity during design stages and use multiple key workshop skills which they can then apply during lesson times and on their own projects. Because students are allowed the freedom to independently create concepts of their choice around a given brief rather than following strict instructions, they gain confidence in their own ability to design and solve real-world problems.

This club gives students the chance to explore Economics before they are able to take the subject in the Fourth Form. Each week, students are introduced to economic concepts and theories through games and interactive activities, exploring topics such as supply and demand, scarcity, unemployment, and government intervention. The club allows students to get to grips with Economics and have a better understanding of the subject before making their GCSE choices. No prior knowledge of Economics is required.

In this society students explore areas of Geography outside of the curriculum. They can pursue their particular interests or passions within the subject through project work or participate in geographical activities such as board games, documentaries and quizzes. Activities like exploring Google Earth using virtual reality headsets combine excitement and education, developing students’ learning above and beyond that of their peers.

A mixture of both staff and student-led talks are offered on a history topic of choice. History quizzes, sessions of the computer game Total War and educational videos also form part of the activities. Through the club students learn about topics that are not covered in the curriculum, have fun with their peers and learn how to prepare and present talks. Students who present talks are also encouraged to write up their thoughts, which are printed in Pravda, the School’s History and Politics magazine.

Based around attempting Maths problems, Junior Maths Challenge and Olympiad-style questions, cross-number and logic puzzles, this club helps pupils develop problem-solving skills and exposes them to unusual problems unlike those seen in the classroom. It offers an excellent opportunity to discuss mathematics outside of the curriculum and is good preparation for the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT) Junior Mathematical Challenge and similar competitions.

The aim of the Junior Programming Club is to inspire boys to solve problems and create simple computer games using Scratch or Python.  The sessions are not just about code. By learning how to create games we aim to boost skills like literacy, numeracy, creativity, problem solving, teamwork, communication, perseverance, and the ability to work together towards a goal. Students are encouraged to work in pairs and to help each other.  They are supported by a Computer Science teacher with some examples and demonstrations but are expected to work independently towards fulfilling their own project.

If you enjoy solving problems, especially practical ones, then the Robotics Group is for you. It is challenging, but also great fun. Learn how computers can control a wide range of different machines.

Junior students are invited to come and explore the exciting worlds of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Activities are designed to promote the creative and logical thinking skills of students.

‘A Community of Enquiry’ – we will meet each week to have a philosophical discussion using Socratic Dialogue. This is an excellent and fun opportunity to hone your speaking, listening, debating and critical thinking skills. There will be a judging criteria with marks awarded for excellent participation and a chance to take part in national competitions!

The Academic Enrichment Societies celebrate curiosity and further intellectual exploits. They provide a dedicated forum for students to actively engage in intellectual work and explore literally anything that interests them! Students can research and write articles, craft diplomatic policy, design products, and creatively write in any genre. Each year students contribute to The Journal, Whitgift’s own academic journal – over 200 articles have been published in the last two years.

Students work  in pairs learning to assemble their Lego Technic kit, developing their problem solving, concentration and communication skills in a fun and collaborative way.

Learn how to play this ancient tile-based board game which developed in 17th century China and is now a popular national pastime. Mahjong can improve your memory skills, sharpen your mind and practise your social skills by playing with different styles of players. It also helps you to make faster decisions, better observations and to think in different ways. 

Maths for Engineering is a club for students who are interested in all types of engineering: it is for those who see engineering as a hobby, for those who think they might like to do something to do with engineering in the future, and for those in the Upper 6th who have already applied for engineering degrees. Every week we look at different approaches to solving problems with an engineering focus, usually by applying maths to the problem and learning about different strategies and techniques that engineers apply to real-life scenarios. Students have the chance to stretch themselves mathematically, apply creative solutions to problems, and discuss their ideas with fellow students. As ALL engineering is just applied maths, this club is suitable for students with interests in any types of engineering.

MedSoc meetings feature talks and presentations by staff, students, visitors and Old Whitgiftians on a variety of medical themes.
Preparation for UCAS applications, admissions tests and interviews are also conducted during the meetings and outside of them. Sixth Formers will be provided with advice and support for their UCAS applications to Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science courses at university. It will also help enhance and broaden students’ knowledge of Science content learnt through the A Level and IB syllabi. Students from any Form interested in medical careers can visit the MedSoc Firefly page to access help and support.

Students will learn two meditation practices that can help develop calm, focused and creative states of mind. These are the Mindfulness of Breathing, which can support concentration, and the Metta Bhavana, which helps to cultivate love and kindness for ourselves and others. The teacher will take students through these step-by-step, and give them tips for posture and how to keep up their meditation practice at home.

 The aim of the Meteorological Society is to stimulate and sustain interest in weather and climate data. Students will be actively involved in collecting and collating weather data and can even have a go at forecasting the weather! We have a range of exciting activities planned including weather experiments and offsite events!

The Academic Enrichment Societies celebrate curiosity and further intellectual exploits. They provide a dedicated forum for students to actively engage in intellectual work and explore literally anything that interests them! Students can research and write articles, craft diplomatic policy, design products, and creatively write in any genre. Each year students contribute to The Journal, Whitgift’s own academic journal – over 200 articles have been published in the last two years.

This is an opportunity to extend your knowledge and explore areas of chemistry that are not covered in lessons. The focus will be on using experiments to investigate and discover!

The Outdoor Education department run weekly mountain bike sessions at various locations around the local area, and pupils have access to a great selection of bikes and equipment. Sessions are run every week through the year, with night riding in the winter using bike and helmet lights. In addition to weekly sessions, expeditions have been run to locations including Wales, the Lake District, the French Alps, the Pyrenees and Morocco. In recent years, racing has been introduced and several students now take part in local and regional XC and Enduro events.

Music theory is well supported within the department. Online resources enable teachers to set tasks to individual pupils. GCSE students attend drop-in theory sessions, and a specialist teacher is available for individual tuition, subject to availability.

The National Theatre New Views project is an annual playwriting programme for 15-19 year olds.   Each year hundreds of students from across the UK learn about playwriting from some of the finest writers in the business and write their own 30 minute plays, with one play chosen to be staged at the NT with a professional cast. We have around four after school sessions every half term, and a visit to the National Theatre, all to prepare you for submitting your very best play so far. Last year Whitgift had a play longlisted!

A club to learn how to code solutions to Physics problems via simulations, featuring java, Python and more.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is a strategy-based card game where two players use their Pokémon to battle each other. Open to members of the Junior Years, Pokémon Trading Card Club is a space where the next generation of Ash Ketchum’s can hone their skills, trade cards to generally learn and improve their Pokémon knowledge. Come along to try and catch ‘em all!

Students can write for, design and edit the School History and Politics magazine – it’s a phenomenal opportunity to research topics that pupils are interested in, and then to have work published in the magazine. A must for anyone considering History or Politics onwards to higher education.

Turn your drawings and designs into exciting prints to share with family and friends. Over the course of the year we will explore various printmaking techniques, including: linocut, etching, mono printing and screen printing.

Step into the captivating realm of the human mind with our exhilarating cocurricular club: "Psychological Insights". If you're a fifth form student yearning to unravel the mysteries of human behaviour and cognition, then this is your golden ticket! Imagine immersing yourself in a whirlwind of engaging lessons that delve into the very fabric of human psychology. Each session is meticulously designed to spark your curiosity, igniting your passion for the subject.

As you embark on this exhilarating adventure, you'll gather the tools and insights that mirror those of a Psychologist. With hands-on activities, thought-provoking discussions, and real-world applications, you'll acquire a skillset that goes beyond textbooks and lectures. But that's not all – envision yourself equipped with the fundamental knowledge to step confidently into the riveting world of A-level or IB Psychology. This club is your launchpad, propelling you towards higher academic pursuits and a deeper understanding of the subject of Psychology that has captivated the minds of scholars for ages.

Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey with the Whitgift Behavioural Insights Team, spearheaded by the dynamic Whitgift Psychology Department! This extraordinary club is set to revolutionise our school community by harnessing the power of cutting-edge psychological research and insights from the government's esteemed Behavioural Insights Team. Brace yourselves as our ingenious students, in close collaboration with the School Council and Captain Team, fearlessly identify pressing school-related issues and unveil evidence-based strategies that will ignite positive change. Stand witness as they fearlessly implement these transformative strategies and meticulously measure their profound impact, culminating in the creation of an extraordinary, all-inclusive, and unwaveringly supportive school environment. Prepare to unlock your potential, empower your community, and discover the awe-inspiring influence of psychological research on social change.

Join Public Art Club – we explore the varied works of art that are designed for the public and displayed where the public can see it. Whether that be monuments, posters, murals, statues, sculptures or installations, public art is a reflection of how we see the world and what we think about it; so let’s make some public art for our school community!

Whitgift Quiz Society welcomes you to a quiz like no other! Questions are designed to get you thinking, answers that you could never just know, or could you? If you’re a lateral thinker, if you cheer when you score one point on Only Connect, or you think quizzes are easy, come join us and put your brain to the test. 

This French language club focusses on different activities and events including a conjugation cup (testing knowledge of verb endings), board games, a French comic competition and a spelling bee (with the chance to win prizes). It is a tremendous opportunity to expand French vocabulary and wider knowledge of French language and culture. There is a Monday session for lower years (First Form, Second Form and Third Form) and a Wednesday session for the Fourth and Fifth Forms.

Sport at Whitgift aims to provide outstanding opportunities for participation and engagement across a wide range of sporting activities, while offering structures to advance and support high level performance from within. This is underpinned by our desire to endow students with a lifelong love of physical activity.

Sport and Physical Education in school is about much more than simply participating or winning. It is about developing a set of life skills, to be mastered both on and off the field. Most importantly, sport is about finding a passion and having fun. 

Regardless of ability we strongly encourage all pupils to engage in physical pursuits throughout the School day. This includes a wide range of sporting teams, recreational clubs, and access to our fitness suite and gym before, during and after the School day. We aim to educate everyone about the benefits of physical activity and promote an inclusive and varied co-curricular programme to achieve this.

Opportunities on offer include recreational clubs, where there are no selection criteria, and all pupils can attend and be involved. 

• Archery
• Athletics
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Cycling
• Fitness Suite and Gym
• Fives
• Football
• Golf
• Judo
• Karate
• Squash
• Swimming
• Table Tennis
• Tennis
• Water Polo

The Rifle Club meets on the School’s indoor range on Tuesday lunchtimes from 1 – 2pm for those interested in learning, or improving, the marksmanship principles required to shoot accurately and consistently.  Full teaching and coaching is provided in order to progress even those who have never shot before to a standard whereby they will be able to compete in a School team in various .22 calibre target shooting postal competitions.  For those making good progress a second session is held after school on Wednesday from 3.45 – 5pm, where expert coaching from members of the Whitgift Veterans Rifle Club (WVRC) is provided.  For those who wish to progress even further it may be possible to form an outdoor (full bore) shooting team to take part in shoots at Bisley in Surrey.  Membership of the WVRC is also possible for those keen to experience further indoor and outdoor shooting opportunities.

We offer .22-caliber target shooting on the School’s indoor range, improving individual shooting skills through expert coaching
and practice in order to form school teams for competitions. By accessing expert coaching, pupils can learn to shoot or improve their shooting standard. Through this safe and relatively low- commitment introduction to target-shooting, those interested and showing aptitude can progress to shooting with the Whitgift Veterans Rifle Club and to full-bore outdoor shooting.

Welcome to the Computer Science Robotics & Games Development Club, where imagination meets innovation. Designed for aspiring engineers, coders, and game developers, our club offers hands-on experience in computer science, robotics, and game development. With cutting-edge resources, we provide you with the tools to explore, learn, and create—unleashing your full potential as a future tech leader!

We meet weekly to review and discuss the six fabulous books shortlisted for the Royal Society’s Young People’s Book Prize 2021. We think about the age range it is aimed at, put ourselves in their shoes and think is this book interesting and does it present science in a new and exciting way. At the end of term we will choose our favourite book. Many other schools and clubs across the UK are doing the same and the one with the most votes will be chosen as the winner, with the prize ceremony taking place in February 2022.

Welcome to the Science Documentary Club, where students gather to explore diverse scientific realms. From the cosmos to the human body, each screening sparks discussions and ignites curiosity. In the school's cosy viewing area (Lab17), members are transported by captivating visuals and narratives, fostering a vibrant community of learners. Encouraged to voice thoughts and pose questions, they unravel scientific complexities and draw inspiration from storytelling. Join us on a lunchtime voyage of discovery, where the screen becomes a portal to enlightenment and curiosity knows no bounds.

We meet every fortnight to review, discuss, and experimentally work through interesting and novel developments within science.  Typically there is a Chemical focus to what we work through, but the ethos of the group is distinctly pupil-driven.  As far as possible, we aim to accommodate and promote development of the scientific process in areas that genuinely inspire the students who attend.

Chess Club meets to play casual chess, either blitz or rapid time controls.  Players of all standards are welcome to come along.  We take part in matches and tournaments against other schools, and a wide range of events for all level of player are available, whether you are just learning or a are a regular club player.

An opportunity for all senior students, be they students of Classics or not, to explore further their interests in the classical world. Talks are presented by staff or students on an array of topics, followed by a Q&A session and discussion. A range of topics are covered, depending on members interests and have recently included ‘Gender and Sexuality in Ancient Greece and Rome’, ‘The Great Greek Thinkers’, and ‘The Importance of Egypt to Ancient Greece and Rome.’ Students speakers are occasionally seconded to Junior Classics Club to present there.

Students are taught the basic skills of building and using clay so they can develop their own ideas for work or join in with group activities. They can make an object at each session, or work on creating an object over a period of weeks.
Apart from developing skills such as 3D design and creativity, working with clay can offer a wide range of benefits. It is easy to handle and more forgiving than other mediums and can improve self-esteem as children have control over their projects."
 

Interested in mastering the art of problem-solving, honing your coding skills, and staying abreast of the latest trends in the tech world? Join the Senior Computer Science Academic Society, the go-to Computer Science Academic Society that focuses on cultivating critical thinking, enhancing programming and problem-solving abilities, and exploring the cutting-edge news in the industry.

This club focuses on developing performance and directorial skills around improvisation and devising. It also looks more specifically at different dramatic styles such as Greek, Brechtian and Stanislavskian, all while honing performance skills. There is no commitment and it is not compulsory – some students come regularly, and others whenever their other commitments allow.

Engaging Senior Geographers beyond the current exam syllabus, this club provides opportunities for deeper thinking and discussions about key geographical matters in the contemporary world through external lectures, mentoring, and university application discussions. There are also opportunities for extension activities that will stretch and challenge students and give them valuable UCAS application material.

Senior LitSoc is about exploration: finding out about literature and discovering ways of looking at the world that you won’t find in the classroom. A combination of lectures and workshops, it is the ideal place for those who want to explore beyond their current reading.
Students who are thinking about taking English further or have an interest in writing, literature or how our society has evolved through language will find this society extremely beneficial. The club should be considered essential for those considering further education in a literary discipline – not just English, but also Classics, Languages and Philosophy.

Talks delivered by students and teachers on a variety of mathematical topics alternate with problem-solving from various mathematics competitions and extension papers, such as the Senior Mathematical Challenge, Senior Maths Team Challenge, and STEP questions. The club provides an opportunity to give talks to peers and work with others on mathematical problems, as well as introducing areas beyond the normal curriculum. The experience is particularly valuable to those looking to study a Mathematics- related degree course at university and is good preparation for Oxbridge interviews.

‘A Community of Enquiry’ – we will meet each week to have a philosophical discussion using Socratic Dialogue. This is an excellent and fun opportunity to hone your speaking, listening, debating and critical thinking skills. There will be a judging criteria with marks awarded for excellent participation and a chance to take part in national competitions!

String players explore some of the finest string repertoire ever written.

Grade 6 and above.

The Academic Enrichment Societies celebrate curiosity and further intellectual exploits. They provide a dedicated forum for students to actively engage in intellectual work and explore literally anything that interests them! Students can research and write articles, craft diplomatic policy, design products, and creatively write in any genre. Each year students contribute to The Journal, Whitgift’s own academic journal – over 200 articles have been published in the last two years.

Non-auditioned choir for all ages focusing on pop, jazz, soul and funk music and regularly joined by the Soul Choir Band.

Would you like to learn Spanish in a fun way?
Would you like to beat your best friend at EL BURRO?
Come along to our Spanish Cards Club 

Sport at Whitgift aims to provide outstanding opportunities for participation and engagement across a wide range of sporting activities, while offering structures to advance and support high level performance from within. This is underpinned by our desire to endow students with a lifelong love of physical activity.

Sport and Physical Education in school is about much more than simply participating or winning. It is about developing a set of life skills, to be mastered both on and off the field. Most importantly, sport is about finding a passion and having fun. 

Regardless of ability we strongly encourage all pupils to engage in physical pursuits throughout the School day. This includes a wide range of sporting teams, recreational clubs, and access to our fitness suite and gym before, during and after the school day. We aim to educate everyone about the benefits of physical activity and promote an inclusive and varied co-curricular programme to achieve this.

Opportunities on offer include sports teams, where members train and are selected for teams to represent the School; and recreational clubs, where there are no selection criteria, and all pupils can attend and be involved. Some activities qualify for both criteria.

• Athletics
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Cross Country
• Cycling
• Fencing
• Fives
• Football
• Golf
• Hockey
• Indoor Hockey
• Judo
• Modern Pentathlon – Biathlon
• Rugby
• Rugby 7’s
• Squash
• Swimming
• Table Tennis
• Tennis
• Water Polo

The seminars are designed to provide students with an experience of how History is taught at university, introducing them to thinkers, ideas and historiographical debates that they would not encounter at school. The seminars will stretch students well beyond the IB
or A Level curriculum, helping to nurture their love of the subject and their understanding of the past and present day. They are incredibly helpful for university applications, in particular the inclusion of areas studied in a personal statement.

String players develop skills through a wide range of classical and light classical favourites.

Grades 2 - 5.

A great opportunity to develop your painting and drawing skills based on everybody’s favourite subject matter, cakes, and sweets!

We will be using the work of Sarah Graham and Wayne Thiebaud as our inspiration. Students will need to commit to at least a term but ideally this is aimed at students that love art and want to hone their skills and attend for the year.

A full symphony orchestra experience for orchestral players covering classic symphonic repertoire.

Grade 6 and above.

An occasional society that simply reads through a play as a group, allowing students access to interesting works by playwrights they may not have come across before. The Harcourt-Williams Play Reading Society offers a civilized evening of shared company, good humour and good culture. For those with interests in drama, literature or performance, a play-reading evening is great fun and likely to expand horizons in all areas.

"The best moments in reading are when you come across something – a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things – which you had thought special and particular to you. Now here it is, set down by someone else, a person you have never met, someone even who is long dead. And it is as if a hand has come out and taken yours.”― Alan Bennett, The History Boys

Do you love reading? Do you want to immerse yourself in another world? Do you love discussing ideas? Come to the Reading Room!

We explore ‘Big Questions’ about the meaning of life, time, space and more through the medium of Dr Who. This is a fun club where younger students can engage with these big questions and discover more about the iconic figure of ‘The Doctor’ in popular culture.

University Maths runs through the Michaelmas term, aimed at pupils in the Upper Sixth who are applying for Maths or a Maths related course at university. Sessions may involve problem solving on key areas of the syllabus, graph sketching or exploring mathematical concepts beyond that normally seen in a school curriculum.

Students learn how to build, paint and play the tabletop battle game Warhammer 40,000 and Warhammer Age of Sigmar. They will develop their creativity and ingenuity through building and painting their own miniatures, and if they fully delve into the hobby will learn how to play a fun, rich game filled with thought-provoking decisions. Students will be educated on what is necessary to purchase to enjoy the hobby fully while ensuring that they make sensible decisions and don’t overwhelm themselves. Guidance will be given to them at every step along the way.

At these bi-weekly WACS meetings current and historical topics are discussed, with an emphasis on the Afro-Caribbean perspective. Many sessions are in the form of an open discussion but there have also been presentations by members of the Sixth Form. In a school with the diversity of Whitgift it is useful to have an understanding of different people’s stories and all are welcome. Greater understanding brings us closer as a community as we move past cultural barriers we may face.  

Teams of students start their own business with the support of teachers and compete on the strength of their business plans and ability to develop a profitable enterprise. After an internal competition where teams pitch their plans to the School’s 
‘Dragons’, the top teams will compete in a national enterprise competition with great prizes available. It’s all about learning what it takes to achieve success in business, including developing a product, engaging in effective marketing, managing finances, and competing in a business environment.

Whitgift BioMED offers an interdisciplinary diploma course covering aspects of anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, developmental biology and neuroscience. Over one academic year, students from Lower Sixth will explore our understanding of human health, diagnosis and treatment of disease. This university-style outreach programme is taught by practical experiments, independent study and weekly lectures by pioneering academics from King’s College London, University College London and University of Cambridge. At Whitgift, we are proud to share our world-class scientific facilities with surrounding schools including Thomas Moore and Old Palace and look forward to educating the next generation of scientists.

Auditioned singers who join the choristers and choral scholars for events throughout the year including tours, visits to various cathedrals and festive celebrations.

*For advanced singers 

Whitgift Queer Society is a student led group providing a safe space for students of any sexuality or gender identity to discuss LGBTQ experience in a supportive environment. Meetings may include casual discussion, presentations from staff and students, watching relevant films or T.V, reading topical news, planning event and, of course, snacks! In Summer 2019, the School had a walking group of students and staff in the annual Pride in London parade. Post lockdown, our group are excited to be currently making plans for future events.

Students create their own Economics magazine; writing the articles, creating the artwork and editing them into a magazine form which is then professionally printed for distribution in and around the School. Whitonomics offers excellent opportunities to explore economic forces and concepts in more depth, develop research and writing skills in creating articles and take ownership
of the entire process of producing a magazine. Previous teams have won prestigious Shine School Media Awards.

The Yarn Club is a safe, quiet space for students to learn a new skill and get creative. This club is based in Junior Library so that it is in a quiet, comfortable, attractive space. Students will be able to take time out from the busy day, improve motor skills, concentration and get access to a different friendship group.  The first project will be making our own bookmarks.