Why It’s Not Just About Grades: The Power of Extracurricular Activities
- Emma Harper
- Jun 2
- 4 min read
As parents, it’s natural to want the best for our children: academically, socially, and emotionally. And while school reports, exam results, and homework deadlines often take centre stage, there’s a whole world of development happening outside the classroom that’s just as important.
Extracurricular activities (whether it’s dance, drama, football, coding, scouts, or choir) aren’t just nice-to-haves. They can be a crucial part of a child’s growth, especially in the formative years between 8 and 18.
Here’s why those after-school hours might matter more than you think.
Extracurriculars Build Confidence in Quiet, Powerful Ways
Not every child shines in the classroom and that’s okay. Sometimes, the football pitch or the art room is where they finally feel seen. When children try new things, make mistakes, and improve over time, they start to believe in themselves. That confidence doesn’t stay on the netball court, it spills into their schoolwork, friendships, and sense of self-worth.
At Core Plus Tuition, we’ve often seen students come to us shy and unsure, only to light up when they tell us about a recent performance or competition. That spark can reignite a love for learning too. It is also why we will try to build their extra-curricular passions into their learning. Creative writing can be inspired by their basketball kit or a recent field trip with Guides. Physics can be explored through their athletics or dance. Maths can be explored through sports statistics or racing your tutor!
Extracurriculars Teach Life Skills You Can’t Always Learn from a Textbook
Teamwork, time management, communication, perseverance: these are big life lessons, and many of them come from outside the classroom.
In a school play, a child might learn lines, but they are adamant they won't remember anything for an exam. On a sports pitch/field children need to work with others towards a common goal. In a robotics club, they might learn to problem-solve in real time. Even dealing with nerves before a piano exam is a masterclass in emotional regulation!
While academic success opens doors, character helps you walk through them.
Extracurriculars Support Mental Health and Wellbeing
After a long day of sitting still and focusing hard, children need outlets to move, create, laugh, and just be themselves. Extracurriculars offer that much-needed mental break.
They also help build a sense of identity beyond academics, which is especially important for teens navigating self-esteem and peer pressure.
Feeling part of something (a team, a cast, a club) gives children belonging, purpose, and joy. And when emotional wellbeing is strong, academic resilience often follows.
It is a common misconception that when students are revising the first sacrifice are their extracurriculars. This is the exact opposite of what should be done. There needs to be a balance but everyone (no matter what age) needs an outlet and something in their week to spark joy. I may have a lot of work to do but I will always build time into my day to build some Lego or watch a film. I recently had a student who was overwhelmed with their A Levels and the key advice was to keep swimming. They needed that break from the studies to let their mind switch off, process and just enjoy being in the water.
Extracurriculars Bring Families Together
Extracurriculars can be a lovely way for families to bond, whether it’s cheering from the side-lines, helping learn lines, or even attending a showcase. Some extra-curriculars can also be a family affair. I currently tutor a student whose whole family play bowls and listening to all of them talk about the sport is inspiring. It also meant I could build the interest into their studies as well!
We’ve heard from parents who say the car journeys to practice became their child’s favourite time to chat. Sometimes, it’s those small, regular moments that matter most.
Extracurriculars Complement Tuition, Not Compete With It
One common concern we hear is: "Will tutoring take time away from other important activities?" But the truth is, when tutoring is done right, it actually creates space, not stress.
At Core Plus Tuition, our sessions are designed to boost confidence and reduce overwhelm, which helps children re-engage with both school and their interests outside it. A confident learner is more likely to try new things and stick with them.
In Summary: It’s About the Whole Child
Academic success is important. But so is confidence. Curiosity. Creativity. Friendships. Joy. The truth is, a child’s growth is not just measured in grades, but in who they’re becoming.
So the next time you’re signing a permission slip, packing a kit bag, or driving to a rehearsal know that you're investing in more than a hobby. You’re helping your child discover who they are, and who they’re capable of becoming.
Need Help Finding the Right Balance?
If your child is struggling to keep up at school (but thriving elsewhere) it might be time for a supportive hand with the academics. At Core Plus Tuition, we specialise in confidence-led tutoring that works alongside your child’s strengths and passions. Let’s help them shine - in every part of their world. Drop us an email at info@coreplustuition.com.
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