Year 12 extra-curriculars

Year 12 (A-Level Year 1) – Deepening Knowledge & Building Leadership

1. Academic Focus:

  • A-levels: You're now studying RS (Philosophy and Theology), Psychology, Government and Politics, Classical Civilization, and Geography. These subjects are all essay-based, requiring strong writing and critical thinking skills.

  • Start preparing for university applications early. Think about how your subjects fit into consulting, law, and policy.

  • Time Management becomes more critical as A-levels intensify. Start using online tools like Trello or Notion to organize study schedules.

2. In-School Extracurricular Activities:

  • Debating Society / MUN:

    • Continue being active in Debating Society. Consider leading a team to competition or organizing debates.

    • Take on a leadership position like President or Event Coordinator for Model UN or Debating.

    • Action Step: Aim to compete in high-profile MUN conferences like Harvard MUN or Oxford MUN, where you can network with top-tier universities.

  • Extended Project Qualification (EPQ):

    • In Year 12, you will begin the EPQ, an independent research project. Choose a topic that ties directly into your future interests. Some suggestions:

      • "To what extent do social media platforms influence political decision-making?" (For Politics).

      • "Can psychological theories explain moral decision-making?" (For Psychology).

      • "How does geography impact political power?" (For Geography).

    • Action Step: Use the EPQ to research deeply and show academic independence. This will make your university application stand out.

  • Leadership Opportunities:

    • In Year 12, you should aim for a leadership role in your school clubs and societies. Whether it's the Debating Society, MUN, or a student-run initiative, demonstrating leadership is crucial for Oxbridge or top Russell Group applications.

    • Action Step: Run a school event related to one of your A-level subjects (e.g., a debate on climate changewith an invited guest speaker).

  • Public Speaking:

    • Participate in public speaking competitions like the ESU Public Speaking Competition. These challenges will hone your communication and persuasive speaking skills, which are essential for consulting, law, and politics.

    • Action Step: Enter 2-3 competitions to refine your skills. Aim for regional finals.

3. Outside of School Extracurriculars:

  • Internships & Work Experience:

    • Start applying for summer internships or work placements in areas like law firms, political offices, or consulting.

    • Action Step: Aim to secure a week-long internship at a local law firm, a political campaign, or a consulting company during the summer after Year 12.

  • Online Networking:

    • LinkedIn is an excellent tool to start networking with professionals. Connect with lawyers, consultants, or professors who could give you career advice.

    • Action Step: Start building your LinkedIn profile with your extracurricular achievements.