Extra Curricular, Trips & Activities

Trips and Visits: Broadening Horizons Beyond the Classroom

At Harwich and Dovercourt High School, we believe that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Trips and visits are an essential part of the educational experience we offer, opening up a world of opportunity, discovery, and growth for our students. These carefully curated experiences enrich our curriculum, inspire ambition, and provide unforgettable memories that shape young lives.

A Year of Adventure and Discovery

The 2024/25 academic year has been filled with a wide variety of trips, each designed to complement classroom learning while offering exciting new perspectives. Whether exploring the culture of another country, stepping into a world of science and technology, or simply learning how to catch a train, our students have embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Residential Trips Abroad

Our residential visits offer immersive experiences that develop independence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world.

  • Germany (Year 8): A three-night residential provided students with the chance to explore German culture, language, and history—deepening their global awareness.
  • Austria Ski Trip (Easter Holidays): Students embraced the challenge of skiing while enjoying the spectacular Alpine setting and learning valuable teamwork and resilience.

Futuroscope, France: A truly unique experience where pupils engaged with science, innovation, and the arts through 40 imaginative attractions—perfectly aligned with cross-curricular learning and developing critical thinking skills.

Curriculum-Linked Experiences

We believe that seeing learning in action helps knowledge come to life. Our curriculum-linked visits are designed to extend understanding and spark a love of learning in every subject.

  • Computer History Museum (Years 9 & 10 Computer Science): Students explored the evolution of computing technology, connecting historical milestones to modern applications.
     
  • Connect Trip (Year 11): Focused on independence, students learned vital life skills such as using public transport and navigating unfamiliar environments.
     
  • Harry Potter World (Years 9 & 10 Media): An exciting exploration of film production, storytelling, and set design to enhance media studies.
     
  • The 39 Steps (Years 10 & 11 Drama): Students experienced live theatre and the power of performance, complementing their GCSE Drama curriculum.
     
  • London Visit (Year 7): Pupils explored the cultural treasures of the capital, from the British Museum to the London Eye, bringing their Year 7 curriculum to life.
     
  • IntoUniversity (University of Essex): Visits helped students envision their futures in higher education, breaking down barriers and encouraging aspiration.
     
  • Galloper Wind Farm: Our strong partnership offers students insight into renewable energy and local industry, enriching their understanding of geography and science.
     
  • Geography Field Work: Local fieldwork helped students develop essential investigative skills and connect classroom knowledge with real-world geography.
     
  • Salon International (KS4 Hair Students): Attendance at this prestigious trade fair gave students a glimpse into the world of professional hair and beauty.
     
Sport, Creativity, and Celebration

Trips and visits also celebrate talent, determination, and participation across the school community.

  • Sports Competitions and Events: From cross country and gymnastics to coastal athletics and golf, students represented the school with pride.
  • Move It Dance and Curve Watersports: High-energy, skill-building opportunities that boosted confidence and encouraged collaboration.
  • ATL Cinema Reward Trip (Electric Palace Theatre): A well-earned reward for students with an Attitude to Learning score of 2.8 or above.
  • Thorpe Park Challenge: Open to all students in Years 7 to 10 who completed 100% of their Sparx Maths homework during the spring term—a fantastic example of how effort and engagement are recognised and celebrated.
     
Opportunity for All

We are proud to ensure that all students can access these transformative experiences, regardless of background. Support is available for disadvantaged students to help with costs, ensuring no child misses out on the life-enriching opportunities that trips and visits provide.

Every trip, whether near or far, opens doors. It might spark a new passion, build independence, or simply give a student the chance to see the world from a different perspective. At HDHS, we are committed to offering these exciting experiences so that every young person can dream bigger, reach higher, and thrive.

We have a variety of clubs on offer at HDHS. Please see the below link for the timetable of lunch time and after school clubs.

Extra-Curricular Clubs 2024/2025