A more vibrant co-curriculum for everyone

PHIL Wildsmith has been appointed as the first Director of Co-Curriculum to deliver an exceptional programme of activities that will benefit each and every student throughout the Schools.

The new role has been created to focus on further improving the quality, depth and range of Dame Allan’s co-curricular provisions, and to ensure the Schools’ co-curriculum fully supports its strong academic curriculum as an equal partner.

Phil’s appointment will enable the introduction of exciting new indoor and outdoor pursuits, the development of stronger community links in the local area, and a move to encourage participation in co-curricular activities among all pupils and staff.

Now in his thirtieth year as a biology teacher at Dame Allan’s, Phil has always been heavily involved in the Schools’ co-curriculum. He said partaking in activities, clubs and societies is an invaluable element of school life that helps develop the ‘whole pupil’ beyond the academic.

He said: “DAS already has a broad offering, but what this role will enable me to do is refine, develop and champion a more vibrant co-curriculum that packs a bigger punch and engages with all pupils, across every year group.

“This is significant when you consider the many benefits of co-curricular activities, beyond their obvious enjoyment. Coming together in groups and taking part in clubs, trips and interests develops key life skills. It allows pupils to become aware of their strengths and weaknesses; develop resilience; increase self-esteem; recognise and appreciate the contribution of others; acquire time management skills; and give a commitment to a cause or a team.

“What they are also developing is self-efficacy and a belief in their own capabilities, which in turn has a positive effect on academic performance, motivation, and, further down the line, employability.”

Phil, who stepped down as Head of Boys’ School after 14 years in the role, brings a wealth of experience to his new position.

He has been involved in music and sport, intends to support opportunities in dance and drama, and has a keen interest in outdoor pursuits. He was instrumental in the creation of Dame Allan’s World Challenge Expeditions and has accompanied eight teams of pupils to various countries in the developing world over the last 25 years. He is currently part of a team to go to eSwatini and Mozambique in Summer 2023.

Phil also set up the Schools’ Outdoor and Leadership Education Programme, is a CCF Royal Marine Officer, and very much enjoys Gold D of E expeditions and creating A Level Biology Fieldwork courses. 

Outside of Dame Allan’s, Phil is a course tutor for the Moor and Fell Walking Award; an instructor with LinkUp Holidays Trust; a Stocksfield Baptist Church youth work team member; and Chairman of Dun Fell Christian Trust, which runs an outdoor centre in the Eden Valley, Cumbria. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in recognition of his expedition leading work.