As a leading voluntary grammar school, we offer a vast array of opportunities for our students to be stretched and challenged beyond the classroom. Departments across the school provide a range of clubs and competitions as part of our super-curricular programme. This is further enhanced by inviting external speakers and industry experts to Wallace for talks and interactive workshops. Teaching staff also provide invaluable support to students preparing for additional assessments related to university entry, graduate recruitment, and higher-level apprenticeships.
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Departments
The sciences run annual Physics, Chemistry, and Biology Olympiads for senior students. Similar competitions, such as the Faraday Challenge, offer younger students the chance to expand their knowledge and scientific skills in a competitive format.
The Computing Department takes part in the Lego Club Challenge each year and has achieved significant success at both local and national levels. They also offer a variety of other super-curricular opportunities, including the Computing Olympiad, the Oxford Computing Challenge, and the Bebras Challenge.
The English Department has enjoyed notable success at local and national levels in public speaking and creative writing competitions, recently qualifying for the UK Public Speaking Final. They also facilitate the Bar Mock Trials competition and run drama workshops with industry professionals.
Modern Languages offers an array of linguistic and translation competitions, language immersion events, and participation in national contests. These include the Language Olympiads and the National Linguistics Competition, organised by GCHQ.
The Geography Department participates in the annual World Wise Quiz, while the History and Politics Department has taken part in the Entwined Futures Programme since 2012.
The Maths Department runs the UKMT Challenge across all year groups and recently won the Queen’s University Maths Challenge. Technology and Design engage in the First Tech Challenge and, more recently, the School Robotics Challenge at W5.
Gifted and Talented Programme
A core component of our leading super-curricular programme is the Key Stage 3 Scholars Programme and the Oxbridge Club. Led by our Gifted and Talented Coordinator, these bespoke programmes enable gifted and talented students in Years 9–14 to follow an individualised educational pathway and take ownership of their learning. This unique super-curricular pathway inspires and challenges students to aim towards applying to top universities in the UK and Europe. Former students have gone on to study at Oxford, Cambridge, and Sciences Po in France. Wallace is cultivating networks with alumni who have attended these prestigious institutions, as well as with outreach teams at Cambridge and Oxford.
Extra-Curricular Clubs, Sports and Societies
Our extra-curricular clubs, sports and societies have also had great success with super-curricular offer. Lucy, a member of the Rotary Interact Club, was placed first in NI for the Rotary Young Leader competition and will soon be heading the Strasburg for the European finals. In March, choir members will be taking part in the Feis Ceoil all Ireland choral competition. A large number of our athletes are currently involved in Ulster, Northern Ireland and Irish sports programmes for Hockey and Rugby.
Reflections
Quote from Mr N Armstrong, Gifted and Talented Coordinator:
“At Wallace High School, we are committed to nurturing the potential of every student through an outstanding super-curricular programme. These activities not only encourage intellectual curiosity and resilience but also prepare students for success in competitive academic and professional environments. The Scholars Programme and Oxbridge Club provide opportunities for gifted students to thrive, while department-led initiatives develop vital skills across a range of disciplines. Our success in national and international competitions reflects the talent and dedication of our pupils and staff. Super-curricular learning truly sets Wallace apart, enabling students to excel and inspire.”
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Last modified: January 22, 2025
