Beyond the Classroom

Shaping skills. building character.

Our co-curricular programme is where passions are developed, confidence is strengthened and friendships continue to grow.

In the Sixth Form, these experiences are also about preparing for life beyond CHS and helping students build the skills, independence and networks they will draw on at university, in the workplace and in their communities.

Through sport, performance, leadership, outdoor adventure and volunteering, they gain confidence, resilience and teamwork. Whether directing a play, performing on stage, leading a project or fundraising for a cause they care about, Sixth Formers learn how to make things happen.

Sport

Whether representing CHS in competitive fixtures or taking part in weekly fitness sessions for fun, every student has the opportunity to stay active and develop their skills. Our inclusive approach ensures that both high-level athletes and those simply looking to maintain fitness are supported and celebrated equally.

Sixth Formers benefit from first-class sporting facilities and expert coaching, many from former elite or professional players and are inspired by Old Waconians who have achieved incredible sporting heights, including professional footballer Duncan Watmore, golfer Bronte Law, rugby player Tom Curtis and waterskier Lucy Roberts.

Trips and International Exchanges

In the Sixth Form, trips are designed to complement students’ academic focus and broaden their horizons. Some of the Sixth Form opportunities include a Politics trip to Washington D.C, an Art Study Tour to Madrid and a trip to CHS in The Gambia.

Students can also apply for an extended exchange with Kantonsschule Zürcher Unterland (KZU) in Switzerland, spending 3–4 weeks immersed in Swiss school life.

Languages students have opportunities to take part in work experience opportunities with language and culture activities through our European partner schools.

Performing and Creative Arts

In the Sixth Form, students take leading roles in the performing and creative arts. As the most senior musicians in the school, they perform in and lead ensembles and concerts and in Drama they have the opportunity to stage their own production from start to finish.

These experiences give students the freedom to develop their creativity and gain real-world leadership skills preparing them for future creative careers or a lifelong enjoyment of the performing arts beyond school.

Clubs and Activities

something for everyone

Sixth Form leadership opportunities
In the Sixth Form, students are seen as the ultimate ambassadors, taking on meaningful roles that shape school life and set the tone for younger pupils.

The Sixth Form Council leads this work, comprising smaller committees focused on key areas such as charities, eco initiatives, and student voice. In addition to council roles, students have the opportunity to mentor younger pupils, lead clubs and societies, represent the school at events and contribute to whole-school decision-making.
Volunteering
Volunteering is an important part of Sixth Form life at CHS, with students encouraged to give their time to causes that matter to them. Opportunities include supporting pupils in local primary schools, taking part in community projects through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and volunteering at external events such as TEDxManchester through the School’s ongoing partnership.
Model United Nations Cheadle Hulme (MUNCH)
Model United Nations (MUN) offers pupils a unique opportunity to explore global issues through the lens of international diplomacy. Representing different countries at up to ten conferences each year, both in the UK and abroad, pupils debate real-world challenges such as human rights, climate policy and cybersecurity. In doing so, they develop critical thinking, research, and collaboration skills, while gaining a deeper understanding of global affairs.

CHS also proudly hosts its own annual conference, welcoming over 600 students for a weekend of high-level debate, all organised by a dedicated team of Sixth Form pupils.
Duke of Edinburgh
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a hugely popular co-curricular programme at CHS, with over 200 pupils taking part each year. As a licensed centre, we offer all levels of the Award – Bronze, Silver and Gold, giving pupils the chance to develop confidence, resilience, leadership and teamwork through volunteering, physical activity, skill-building and adventurous expeditions. CHS expeditions take pupils to the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Isle of Arran and even Morocco. Gold participants also complete a residential stay.
F1 in Schools
F1 in Schools gives students the opportunity to compete in a real-world STEM challenge by designing, engineering, and racing miniature Formula‑1 vehicles.

Part of a global competition, teams work in roles from engineering and branding to project management and marketing, gaining hands‑on experience in collaboration, creativity, and technical problem-solving. Our teams enjoy continued national placement success in competitions.