Early in Year 7 pupils enjoy three days in Norfolk where, along with outdoor activities such as climbing, abseiling and raft-building, they are introduced to the school’s values and ethos and the importance of building positive relationships.

At the start of Year 10 pupils attend a residential camp to think through their approach to GCSEs and expand their study skills techniques. They also take part in team building activities such as climbing and high ropes challenges.

The curriculum is enhanced by making extensive use of London’s museums, galleries and theatres. Field trips take place in the local area as well as further afield.

Every overseas trip enhances learning. Pupils have the opportunity to practise their language skills and visit art galleries, museums and other attractions. Recent trips have included a geography and science trip to the Bay of Naples, Italy, to see Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii and Herculaneum, to Iceland where pupils studied the glacial landscape, to Barcelona for culture and art and a skiing in Austria . Forthcoming trips include and a cultural visit to Rome and a geography trip to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

Our sixth formers have the opportunity to participate in a trip to Tanzania. This trip to the small town of Musoma on the edge of Lake Victoria previously won an Independent Schools Association Award: “Outstanding Contribution for International Understanding” in recognition of its unique grassroots nature.

Thames provides an imaginative range of co-curricular activities in academic, sporting and creative subjects. Our small size enables pupils to have a high degree of participation.

Pupils participate in national competitions such as the Newsquest Young Reporter Scheme, Young Writers competitions, UKMT Maths Challenge, British Biology Olympiad and Biology Challenge, Royal Society of Chemistry Top of the Bench, debating contests and Independent Schools Association competitions.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award gives pupils the opportunity to gain skills and grow in confidence, giving them an advantage when applying for university and beyond. Bronze is offered in Year 9, Silver in Years 10/11 and Gold in Years 12/13.

Co-curricular opportunities typically include: advanced spreadsheet skills, art history, chess, choirs, community involvement, computer programming, cookery, creative writing, dance, debating, dissections, drama, embroidery, fashion & textiles, history, life drawing, Mandarin, orchestral ensemble, school newspaper, sign language and woodwork. Sports offerings include badminton, basketball, football, gym, netball, rugby, table tennis, tennis, and volleyball.

The Thames Wellbeing Programme is designed to facilitate the formation of character, preparing pupils with the skills to negotiate the workplace and beyond. Good communication and healthy relationships are emphasised throughout a pupil’s journey at the school. Weekly lessons include workplace skills, careers education, cultural intelligence, conflict resolution and citizenship. Additionally Year 9 and 10 Life Skills lessons include financal literacy, success habits, leadership, cookery, entrepreneural skills, Chinese culture and Mandarin.