There are many benefits of co-curricular activities. But first and foremost, it’s about providing opportunities for children to discover new interests and talents that will enable them to establish their own path for success. At Guildford Grammar School, we place a particular emphasis on the Co-curricular program because it affords students the opportunity to grow in parallel to the academic curriculum. Education is about more than academics.
Students who involve themselves in a range of activities through their own volition can experience a number of benefits that would remain unrealised had they sat on the sidelines. There is great value in participating in co-curricular activities and that is why we encourage all students to participate to the fullest of their ability. Our goal as a School is to nurture students and facilitate development on all levels as an individual. We focus on the whole student and by involving children in a robust co-curricular program we can encourage growth in other key areas.
It is inspiring to see the transformation some students experience as they discover a new passion, follow their hearts and engage their minds. Not only do children begin to grow internally, but they also grow through a new sense of belonging and community which can often last a lifetime.
We believe there are countless reasons why children should participate in co-curricular activities. Here’s our top eight:
- Exposure to new activities and discovery of new talents
You never know what you are good at or enjoy until you give it a try! Our Co-curricular program gives students the opportunity to try a range of different activities, from sports to the arts, cooking, surfing, and plenty more. - Strengthens self-esteem and builds confidence
Co-curricular activities can provide an opportunity for students to excel in non-academic pursuits, which can lead to increased confidence in and out of the classroom. - Develops specialised skills and enhances academic learning
Co-curricular activities allow students to learn practical skills in an area of interest to them. One example of this is our sports assistant program where students can gain more experience utilising their umpire or referee qualification through our Friday activities program. - Encourages commitment and fosters a sense of responsibility
Programs such as the GGS Cadets, Community Service or the Duke of Edinburgh program each encourage students to commit to a set program and provide opportunities for them to give something back to the community. - Develops social skills and stronger relationships with peers
Co-curricular activities may involve students from different age groups and houses, so students learn how to build and maintain relationships. - Improves time management and organisational skills
By balancing co-curricular activities with a busy academic program, students learn valuable time management skills that can be utilised in other areas of their life. - Provides stress relief and relaxation
Participating in a co-curricular activity can provide students with a break from their academic work and a shift in focus, increasing endorphins which are the mood-enhancing hormones produced naturally in the brain. Fencing, physical theatre and kayaking programs are great examples of activities that promote endorphin release, which decreases stress and increases relaxation. - Promotes overall personal development and provides prospects for future opportunities
The range of skills that students learn through participating in co-curricular activities can help them to stand out to prospective employers. Some of our co-curricular offerings that help students to develop desirable work skills include woodworking, media production, mock trials, public speaking and titrations.
At Guildford Grammar, we believe that co-curricular activities are vital in supporting your child’s academic education. Through extraordinary opportunities our students are empowered to find their own individual strengths and passions on their personal journey of discovery. To find out more about our co-curricular programs, read our handbooks for Prep and Senior School students.
