Enrichment

At Newfriars College, enrichment is a vital part of our learners’ experience. It complements our rich curriculum and therapy offer, providing opportunities for personal growth, independence, creativity and joy. Our enrichment programme is designed to broaden horizons, build confidence, and create lasting memories across all pathways.

A Vibrant Calendar of Experiences

Throughout the academic year, learners take part in a wide range of exciting trips and events, including:

• Residentials and Trips: Learners enjoy unforgettable experiences such as a one-night stay in London, a week at PGL, and international visits to Spain and Disneyland Paris. We also offer trips to Ullswater and Barmouth, giving learners the opportunity to build independence and develop social skills.
  
  

• The Grand Day Out: A highlight of the year, this college-wide festival features musical performances from students, external artists, and even a staff band. With food stalls, games, and activities, it’s a celebration of community and creativity.
  
  

• Performances and Pantomimes: Learners participate in and attend a variety of performances throughout the year, including our much-loved Christmas pantomime.
  
  

• Daily Community Engagement: Learners regularly access the local community, building confidence and independence through real-world experiences. Find out more about this here. <link to community learning page

Enrichment Through Partnerships

We are proud to work with a range of organisations who enhance our enrichment offer:

• Frontline Dance Company: Delivers inclusive dance sessions that promote expression, movement and wellbeing.
  
  

• Bee Active: Provides engaging sports sessions and lunchtime clubs that encourage physical activity and teamwork.
  
  

• Stoke City FC: Coaches from the club run football sessions that support fitness, coordination and collaboration.

Embedded Enrichment Across Pathways

Each of our pathways – Supported Living (SLP), Independent Living (ILP), and Vocational (VP) – integrates enrichment into the curriculum:

• SLP learners engage in sensory experiences, creative arts, gardening, swimming, and therapies, with a strong focus on community access and personal development.
  
  

• ILP learners develop independent living skills, explore their local area, and take part in project options such as sport, enterprise, and performance. To name just one example, our Art Enterprise Project group has partnered with Newcastle-under-Lyme Markets and regularly run their own market stall selling student-made items, both raising lots of money and broadening the students’ horizons. 
  
  

• VP learners benefit from work placements, enterprise projects, and enrichment sessions that support employability, wellbeing, and preparation for adulthood.

Our enrichment programme is inclusive, personalised, and designed to meet the needs and aspirations of every learner. Whether through a dance workshop, a trip to the seaside, or a performance on stage, enrichment at Newfriars College helps our learners to thrive.