Personal Development - become your best self

Find your voice

At Leighton Park, it’s about much more than just learning, it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be. That means pushing yourself, not being afraid to fail and taking every opportunity – all within a supportive community that’s got your back.

We’ll give you the freedom to fully explore your talents and dreams, to satisfy your curiosity and become the best version of yourself. Find out more below about our:

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Over 90 co-curricular activities to explore

We firmly believe that getting involved in a range of different clubs and activities can help you build confidence and resilience, as well as spark new connections and friendships.

Our extensive co-curricular programme offers something for everyone, from Brazilian Ju Jitsu to Jazz; Public Speaking to Potions Society.

We’re also open to suggestions if there’s something you’d like to do that’s not yet on the timetable. We meet regularly with our student council and co-curricular ambassadors to make sure our clubs stay fresh and engaging.

Find a club +
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Performing Arts

Performing arts unite people, spark creativity, and build a confidence that filters into all areas of life.

Throughout your time at Leighton Park you’ll have plenty of opportunities to act, dance, sing and try a huge number of musical instruments, with our Music Department recognised as one of the very best in the country.

Beyond the stage, you can dive into the world of production, with hands-on experience in our state of the art digital recording and editing suites.

 

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Sport for all
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Sport does so much more than keep you fit and healthy. It teaches you independence and resilience. It encourages teamwork. And it gives you the chance to blow off some steam!

For all these reasons, we strongly encourage each one of our students to get active as part of our sport for all approach. All students have Games two afternoons every week, this is usually team sports but there are also options like swimming, tennis and yoga. Our co-curricular programme offers 30 different sports to try and all students in Years 7-9 with have PE classes and can then opt to take the GCSE in Physical Education and then onto the CTEC Sport and Physical Activity in Sixth Form.

Play every day if you like. From early swimming at 6.30am to games training under the floodlights, there’s sure to be at least one that gets you motivated and moving.

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House
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Our House system is at the heart of our community. It’s where friendships flourish, teamwork shines, and every student finds a place to belong.

From the moment you join us, you become a proud member of one of our Houses – bring students from different year groups together, forging lifelong connections and a sense of shared purpose.

Whether it’s cheering on your House at the annual sports day, collaborating in creative challenges, or contributing to service projects, our House system inspires every student to grow in confidence, leadership, and compassion.

Being part of Bentsi-Enchil, Cadbury, Fox or Tubman House is more than just a badge; it’s a celebration of our values-led, inclusive ethos, where every student is known and valued.

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Skills Development Programmes
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Confidence begins with a strong sense of self. Which is why, while you’re with us, you’ll take part in our personal development programme, CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service).

Neuroscience shows us that your learning is super-charged when you stretch yourself, when you’re pushed out of your comfort zone and when you take risks. So, that’s exactly what you’re going to do.

You’ll uncover new passions and talents, from computer science and creative writing to music, cooking and sports leadership. From Year 9 onwards, you’ll have the opportunity to support local initiatives and work towards your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

In Sixth Form, you’ll also take part in our Oakleaf Diploma, a programme preparing you for adult life and to hit the ground running.

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (D of E) is a highly respected and celebrated qualification. At Leighton Park, everyone takes part in the Bronze Award in Year 9, then you’ll get the option to carry on with Silver in Year 10 and Gold in the Sixth Form.

It’s an amazing opportunity to discover new interests, as well as develop essential skills for life and work.

Most of your co-curricular activities will count towards your D of E. You’ll also take part in outdoor expeditions, challenging yourself and working as a team to support each other as you plan, train and complete your chosen route. Your D of E will be quite the journey, in more ways than one!

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School trips

There’s a world out there to explore, and our school trips are carefully chosen to enhance your learning as they broaden your horizons.

You might head into London for theatre trips; visit a factory for Business, DT or Economics; or examine UK coastlines for Geography. You could sail to France to brush up on your language skills, or take part in a music tour across Europe.

Some of our trips are purely for enjoyment. From our annual skiing week to Christmas markets and pre-season sports tours all over the world to Music tours around Europe, you’ll have plenty of chances to join in the fun and live adventurously.

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How can we help?

Take the next step by selecting an option below, or if you want to drop us a quick message, you can do so with the form.

Shinfield Road
Reading
Berkshire, UK
RG2 7DE
+44 (0) 118 987 9600
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