Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy: Enrichment Thursday
Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy made weekly enrichment accessible to every student by building it into the school day.
Embedding enrichment into the school day
Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy introduced Enrichment Thursday to make enrichment more accessible for all pupils.
The academy had identified that many students were unable to stay after school for extra-curricular activities because of barriers such as bus timetables, caring responsibilities and other commitments. In response, the school introduced an extended school day once a week, creating a timetabled enrichment period for all students in Years 7 to 10.
Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy
Secondary Academy
School type
Location
Ofsted
Age range
Trust
Website
What students did
Students rotate through five different activities from a menu of more than 50 options.
These include familiar opportunities such as football, dance and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, as well as newer experiences such as jewellery making, digital animation and crochet.
By building enrichment into the school timetable, the academy has made participation part of the school week rather than something only available to pupils who can stay after school.
The impact
The school reports that student engagement has transformed, with pupils identifying Enrichment Thursday as the highlight of the week.
The academy also reports that Thursday attendance rose by 2.6 percentage points compared with the previous academic year, making it the best attended day of the week. The school believes the programme has also contributed to wider school appeal.
Our impact
- Weekly enrichment entitlement for all students in Years 7 to 10
- More than 50 enrichment options available
- Students rotate through five different activities
- Barriers linked to transport, caring responsibilities and after-school commitments reduced
- Student feedback identifies Enrichment Thursday as a highlight of the week
- Thursday attendance rose by 2.6 percentage points
Learn more about Ormiston Trusts programmes
We support children, young people, and families across four core programmes.
Each programme is designed to build resilience, unlock potential, and create lasting positive change.
Futures
Career guidance and employability support that helps young people plan for their next steps with confidence.
Action
Community projects and leadership opportunities that help young people make a positive difference.
Enrichment
Arts, sports, and cultural activities that broaden horizons and develop new passions and talents.
Parenting
Family support programs and resources to help parents nurture confident, resilient children.
