A common misconception is that excelling in studies during the last two years of Secondary school leaves little time for extracurricular activities. However, at Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB), students find that a well-balanced approach combining academic rigour, independent study, and extracurricular involvement leads to optimal growth, both academically and personally. This balance enables CSB students to go on to top universities all over the world.
What is Sixth Form?
Sixth Form is the last two years of Secondary school, when students are typically aged between 16 and 19 years old. During this time, students prepare for their AS and A Level examinations, or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), which involves a mixture of exams and coursework. More information can be found here.
Extracurricular Activities and Teenage Brain
Extracurricular activities do not detract from studies; they enhance them. Students who engage in extracurricular activities develop improved time-management skills, focus, and discipline. These abilities are crucial for balancing the demanding workload of A level or IBDP studies.
Participation in extracurricular activities can also boost creativity and critical thinking. For instance, being part of the drama club can enhance public speaking and interpretive skills, directly benefiting students taking English Language or English Literature A levels, or English Language & Literature (SL/HL) as part of the IBDP. Similarly, sports activities promote teamwork and strategic thinking, which can be advantageous in subjects like Economics or Business in both A Levels and the IBDP.
CSB’s Under 18 Football Team
How CSB Engages Students in Extracurricular Activities
Cambridge School of Bucharest offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various student interests. Whether students are inclined toward sports, arts, music, or academic clubs, CSB provides a platform for all. Each week, the school has a timetabled period for extracurricular clubs, as well as opportunities to engage in charity, community work, or work experience and internships throughout the year. All students have the option to try out for the competitive sports teams or join any of the after-school sports clubs for weekly training sessions.
CSB’s independent study hours and supportive environment allow students to pursue both academic and extracurricular goals effectively. The school understands that each student’s path is unique and works to accommodate their individual needs. Dedicated teachers and advisors at CSB play a pivotal role in guiding students, ensuring they maintain a healthy balance between their studies and extracurricular pursuits.
Sixth Form Volunteers at Casa Ioana Soup Kitchen
Charity and Volunteering at CSB
As part of students’ personal development and opening pathways to universities, Key Stage 5 students are encouraged to participate in charity and community service initiatives throughout the school. Each Christmas, our students volunteer at the Casa Ioana Soup Kitchen, where they hand out warm food and clothes to those in need at Gara de Nord. This experience not only helps the community but also fosters empathy and social responsibility among students. Additionally, students from CSB contribute to the International Women’s Association (IWA) Charity Bazaar, assisting with the setup and organisation of the event.
Student-led initiatives further demonstrate the proactive spirit at CSB. The Eco Committee, established by a Sixth Former in 2021, focuses on environmental awareness and sustainability by organising activities such as recycling drives, cleaning up Baneasa Forest, and creating recycling initiatives within the school. Through these efforts, students showcase their leadership and dedication to addressing environmental issues, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Engaging in Sports
Sports activities are also a significant part of life at CSB. The school has competitive under-18 volleyball teams for boys, girls, and mixed groups, as well as football and basketball teams for boys and girls. These teams participate in various tournaments throughout the academic year, promoting teamwork, strategic thinking, and physical fitness among students. Participation in sports not only builds physical endurance but also instils a sense of discipline and collaboration, which are invaluable skills both on and off the court.
Rebecca Susan, Head Girl of Class of 2023 being awarded Gold by John May, Secretary General of the Duke of Edinburgh award
Boosting University Applications and Beyond
In today’s competitive academic landscape, top universities are increasingly looking for well-rounded applicants. A strong extracurricular profile not only showcases a student’s passion and commitment but also highlights transferable skills that universities value, such as leadership, communication, and problem solving.
During Secondary school, CSB students are offered the chance to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award. This prestigious programme encourages personal development and community involvement, offering students the opportunity to engage in activities that build resilience, leadership, and problem-solving skills. In the academic year 2022-2023, Rebecca Susan, Head Girl of the Class of 2023, achieved gold at the Duke of Edinburgh, a prestigious achievement, which, alongside her academic success, helped her gain entry into Stanford University in the USA.
Beyond university applications, extracurricular activities are instrumental in building essential life skills. Teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities developed through these activities prepare students for future professional environments. CSB has had numerous success stories of graduates whose involvement in extracurricular activities significantly contributed to their academic and professional achievements.
Conclusion
Studies and extracurricular activities are not competing forces but rather complementary components of a holistic education. Cambridge School of Bucharest’s unique approach allows students to excel academically, while cultivating valuable life skills and personal qualities through extracurricular involvement. By integrating these two aspects of education, CSB empowers students to achieve their goals in a balanced and enriching manner.
Parents and students are encouraged to explore how CSB can support their aspirations. For more information, visit Cambridge School of Bucharest’s Extracurricular Page.