Life at Barnard Castle School is about far more than just lessons. Our co-curricular programme is designed to help pupils discover who they are, what they love, and how they can contribute – both to the life of the School and to the world beyond it.
Barney pupils shine on stage through vibrant drama productions that build confidence, creativity and a strong sense of community.
Community, character and ambition in action
Whether it’s on the sports field, the stage, in the art room or the parade square, we believe that every pupil should have the chance to grow in confidence, build character and feel a deep sense of belonging.
We’re particularly proud of the breadth and balance of what’s on offer. Pupils don’t need to choose between passions – you’ll find 1st XV players singing in the Chapel Choir, elite netballers acting on stage, and talented artists playing for county cricket. At Barney, it’s perfectly normal to be both sporty and creative, competitive and kind, driven and generous.
Singing together: a community in harmony
Nowhere is the spirit of community more evident than in Congregational Practice – known affectionately as “Congers”. Every week, the whole Senior School gathers to sing together. It’s more than rehearsal – it’s a shared tradition, a moment of joy, and a chance to raise the roof in the name of unity. We believe singing is good for the soul, and Congers is one of the best-loved aspects of school life.
Mind, Body & Soul
For pupils in Years 7 and 8, our unique Mind, Body and Soul programme provides three afternoons a week of activities that spark curiosity, develop new skills, and build wellbeing. From chess and debating to origami and fitness, pupils try over 30 different activities across two years, discovering what lights them up along the way. Sixth Form pupils often take the lead, developing coaching and leadership skills as they guide younger students.
Music, Drama and Art
Creativity is central to life at Barney. Pupils can get involved in school plays, musicals, choirs, ensembles, rock bands and orchestras – whether they are studying the subjects formally or not. Recent productions have included Les Misérables, Six: The Musical and Bugsy Malone. Many of our pupils balance music and drama with sporting excellence, while others find their community through backstage roles in lighting, sound or stage management.
The Chapel Choir, House Singing Competition, and school concerts bring the community together through shared performance and celebration. Our Organ School provides specialist musical training for aspiring organists, while our art activity programme and community mural projects offer creative outlets beyond the classroom.
CCF and leadership
For pupils in Year 9 and above, our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) offers a structured leadership programme through either the Army or RAF sections. Cadets gain experience in fieldcraft, navigation, first aid, shooting, and adventure training. Many progress to senior leadership roles and pursue recognised qualifications in teamwork and personal development.
From rock climbing to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, from marksmanship to CVQO BTECs, the CCF helps pupils build resilience, initiative and responsibility – skills that last a lifetime.
A culture of participation
Every Barney pupil is encouraged to get involved. Whether performing in a play, debating in a competition, singing in Congers, representing a house in sport, or helping in the Prep School, our co-curricular life is rich and inclusive. We want every pupil to find their niche, challenge themselves, and learn that ambition, character, and community are not competing values – they belong together.
