Students enjoy a variety of extra-curricular activities
Our students have been enjoying a variety of engaging extra-curricular activities as part of the elective provision during Term 2 at Brooke Weston Academy.
Year 7 Magical Studies
Brooke Weston Academy recently had the pleasure of hosting visitors from Unilever for an exciting session as part of the Year 7 Magical Studies Elective, a STEM-based elective designed with a magical twist to engage students in practical science.
Unilever representatives introduced the students to their company, highlighting how science plays a crucial role in their global brands. The session featured two captivating experiments: Witches Brew and Sublimation of CO2.
In the Witches Brew activity, students explored the acidic and alkaline properties of common household items like vinegar and baking soda. They combined these ingredients in a neutralisation reaction, adding food colouring and glitter to create vibrant potions. Some students even imagined special powers for their concoctions, adding a creative flair to the experiment.
The second experiment focused on the properties of CO2. Using dry ice (solid carbon dioxide), students observed the process of sublimation, where a substance transitions directly from a solid to a gas. They collected the carbon dioxide gas in balloons and were fascinated to discover that these balloons were heavier than regular ones due to the higher density of CO2. Additionally, students enjoyed making and popping carbon dioxide bubbles, experiencing the gas release first-hand.
Science teacher Danielle Budgen said, ‘This engaging session not only provided a fun and interactive way to learn about science but also inspired students to see the magic in everyday scientific phenomena.’
Year 8 Darts
Students discovered the precision and excitement of da
rts in an engaging elective offering a unique blend of fun while developing their hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking.
Oscar Di Rienzo said, ‘I’ve learnt proper dart-throwing techniques and discovered new games to play with darts. I’m really enjoying it—it’s the best elective I’ve done so far! I can tell I’ve got better, too.’
Tom Thorpe, said, ‘I’ve learnt how to play darts and tried out new games. I’m enjoying it a lot, especially having fun with friends while learning a new game.’
Engineering Lead Gareth Van Wyk said, ‘My dart elective provides students with a fantastic opportunity to build hand eye coordination, precise throwing technique, focus, and strategic thinking skills in an engaging and supportive environment. Through each session, students demonstrate growing confidence, teamwork, and a commitment to improving their technique. Their enthusiasm and active participation make each practice lively and enjoyable, contributing positively to both their personal skill development and the club's sense of community.’
Year 9 Geographical Information Systems Elective
Students have been working towards their proficiency certificate for Esri ArcGIS, which is utilised widely in industry to support managing geographical data. Throughout the course, they have been learning how to utilise the different mapping and analysis tools, which are used to help understand geographical data and to help answer geographical questions.
