Expand your interests and connect with others.
That’s why we run a variety of extracurricular clubs and societies to help you engage with people, interests and issues you care about.
From sports teams to college musicals, debating societies to board games clubs, we offer a huge variety of extracurricular clubs and societies to enable you to make the most out of your time at college, the chance to try something new, develop your interests and hobbies and make life-long friends in the process.
You will have the opportunity to discover a new passion or take part in the activities you love during your time at college – HSDC aims to offer something to suit each and every student.
The timetable and locations for our current Clubs and Societies for students can be found on our intranet. For anything else, please contact our Be Involved Coordinator.
The Alternative is our student online magazine, where students can share their work and opinions with the local community. Calling all budding journalists, business brains, designers and creative bods. If you are interested in publishing either from a creative writing perspective or you just want to learn the basics, then our student magazine needs your contribution.
See the latest version here
(Online only – led by teacher Suzie Martiny)
(Led by teacher Tozzy Bridger) – Tuesday 11.30 – 12.30
(led by teacher Graham Bland) – Wednesday 13.40-14.40
You can expect some bible studying and conversations, a testimony and even the possibility of treats to take home. However, you don’t have to be a Christian to attend, if you have some questions about Christianity in general or about the religion then pop along to find out more, you will be very welcome.
(led by teacher Liz Henley) – Wednesday 13.30-14.10
We are all busy people with lots of commitments. This studio session is an opportunity for students and staff from all areas to work with their hands and enjoy a mindful activity for a small part of the day. Great for mental health, a chance to meet different people, mend a piece of clothing or work on a project in a supportive environment. We have some materials available and plenty of equipment if students wish to use them. If you wish to bring a snack and have a hot drink this is fine too!
(led by teacher Chris Watson) – Tuesday 11,30-12:.30
Whether you’re a beginner, club player or pro, we would love for you to join us at the Alton Chess Club. Our club members are as diverse as the game itself, ranging across Yr1 and Yr2 but all united by a love for the game of chess and the community it fosters.
(Student led) – Tuesday 12.00 – 13.00
(Student led) – Tuesday 12.30 – 13.00 + Friday 12.00 – 13.00
(Led by teacher Mark Snith) – Thursday 11.30 – 13.00
This ensemble is for all string players, together with assorted wind, brass and percussion players. Rehearsals take place in an informal and relaxed atmosphere, preparing music for a number of concerts throughout the year. During the spring term, there will be opportunities to divide into smaller ensembles, such as a string group and a wind ensemble, in order to explore different repertoire.
(Led by teacher Mark Smith) – Wednesday 14.45 – 16.15
(Led by teacher Mark Smith) – Tuesday 11.30 – 13.00
(Student led) – Friday 12.00- 13.30
Come together and play one of the most popular tabletop games. Join us today to explore mystical worlds, fight monsters and go on adventures of a life-time!
(student led) – Tuesday 12.30-13.30
Enjoy writing? Would you like to share your work with peers and receive constructive feedback to support your growth? Do you enjoy reading and listening to other people’s written words? Would you love to meet new friends in a relaxed setting? Then give this club a go.
(Led by Student progress Mentor Victoria Turner)
Make a difference and take an active role as part of a community of empowered change-makers at our Student Union. Represent the interests of all students, have an active voice and help make decisions for the benefit of our South Downs students. The Student Union is a perfect opportunity for you to make a real difference to our college and shape how it is run.
(Online only with teacher Suzie Martiny)
Weekly lunchtime laid-back workshops for those who enjoy writing creatively. Students are encouraged to develop and shape their skills to write poetry, short stories and non-fiction texts. Additionally, students can enter competitions, participate in poetry slams or simply share their work with each other.
(Student led) – Friday 15.30 – 16.30
Come along to a friendly weekly Tabletop Games sessions, with an opportunity to play a range of new and old table games. Make new friends and enjoy a chilled environment.
(led by your Enrichment Coordinator Jodie Meakin) – starting in Jan.
Need to learn those all-important life skills like managing money, driving theory, basic first aid and cooking? This is the club for you.
(Led by your Enrichment Coordinator Jodie Meakin) – Wednesday 12.30 – 13.30
(Student led ) – Monday 14.15 – 15.15
Fridays (13.15 – 13:35) – Student Led
Tuesdays (13.05 – 13:45)
Fridays (13.05 – 13:45)
If you enjoy lively discussions and exploring contemporary issues, Debate Club is for you. Develop your public speaking skills, learn to think critically, and engage in thought-provoking conversations in a friendly, supportive setting.
Thursdays (13.05 – 13:45)
Love poetry? Join us to share your own work or create new pieces together. Each week brings a different theme, offering inspiration and creativity. This is more than a club, it’s a welcoming community for poetry lovers.
Thursdays (12.30 – 13.30) – Drop in
Discover the art of sewing in a relaxed, drop-in session. Whether you’re completely new to the skill or want to refine it, this club is perfect for learning techniques, working on projects, and enjoying a creative, social atmosphere.