Exploring Extracurricular Activities in London: A Guide by Scholar Suites 🇬🇧

London, a vibrant and bustling metropolis, offers a plethora of opportunities for students to enrich their academic experience with exciting extracurricular activities. Whether you’re studying at a university, college, or simply spending some time in the city, there are countless ways to engage, learn, and grow outside the classroom. At Scholar Suites, we understand the importance of a well-rounded student life, so we’ve compiled a guide to the best extracurricular activities in London.

1. Join Student Societies and Clubs

University Clubs and Societies

London’s universities boast a wide array of clubs and societies tailored to diverse interests:

• Academic Societies: Join groups related to your field of study, such as the London School of Economics (LSE) Finance Society or the University College London (UCL) Law Society.
• Cultural Societies: Celebrate and explore different cultures with societies like the SOAS African and Caribbean Society or the King’s College London (KCL) Indian Society.
• Hobbies and Interests: Pursue hobbies with clubs like the Imperial College London Photography Society or the Queen Mary University (QMUL) Film Society.

External Student Organizations

Beyond university-specific groups, several external student organizations offer unique experiences:

• AIESEC London: Engage in global volunteer opportunities and internships.
• Rotaract Clubs: Join a Rotaract club for community service and leadership development.
• Toastmasters International: Improve your public speaking and leadership skills through local clubs.

2. Volunteer Opportunities

Community Service

Volunteering not only helps the community but also enhances your skills and networks:

• Shelter: Support efforts to combat homelessness by volunteering with Shelter.
• FoodCycle: Help reduce food waste and tackle food poverty by preparing meals for those in need.
• Volunteering Matters: Engage in various community projects, from mentoring youth to supporting the elderly.

Environmental Volunteering

Contribute to sustainability efforts through environmental volunteering:

• London Wildlife Trust: Participate in conservation activities across London’s nature reserves.
• Thames21: Help clean up the River Thames and its tributaries.
• The Conservation Volunteers (TCV): Join practical conservation tasks to protect green spaces in London.

3. Explore Arts and Culture

Museums and Galleries

London’s rich cultural scene provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in arts and history:

• Volunteer or Intern: Gain experience by volunteering at renowned institutions like the British Museum or Tate Modern.
• Student Art Groups: Join art groups or societies, such as the Royal College of Art Students’ Union, to engage with fellow art enthusiasts.
• Attend Events: Participate in cultural events and workshops hosted by the Victoria and Albert Museum or the National Gallery.

Theatre and Performance

If you have a passion for the performing arts, London’s theatre scene is unparalleled:

• Join Drama Clubs: Participate in university drama societies or local amateur theatre groups like the London Amateur Dramatics.
• Theatre Volunteering: Volunteer with venues such as the National Theatre or the Shakespeare’s Globe.
• Student Tickets: Take advantage of student discounts for West End shows and fringe performances.

4. Sports and Fitness

University Sports Teams

Many London universities offer a range of sports teams and clubs:

• Imperial College Union: Join teams like football, rowing, or tennis.
• UCL Sports Clubs: Participate in a wide variety of sports, from netball to swimming.
• LSE Athletics Union: Engage in sports like rugby, squash, or martial arts.

Local Sports Leagues

For those not affiliated with a university, London’s local leagues provide excellent alternatives:

• Go Mammoth: Join social sports leagues for activities like volleyball, dodgeball, and netball.
• Better: Access sports facilities and community leagues across London for swimming, basketball, and more.
• Parkrun: Participate in free weekly 5km runs at various parks around the city.

5. Skill Development Workshops

Coding and Tech

Enhance your tech skills through workshops and coding bootcamps:

• Code First Girls: Attend coding courses specifically designed for women.
• General Assembly: Join workshops and bootcamps in coding, digital marketing, and data science.
• Flatiron School: Enroll in immersive programs for web development and data analytics.

Business and Entrepreneurship

Develop entrepreneurial skills with these opportunities:

• London Business School (LBS) Student Association: Engage in events and workshops on entrepreneurship and business innovation.
• StartUp Grind London: Attend events and network with entrepreneurs and investors.
• London & Partners Business Growth Programme: Access support for startups and growing businesses.

London offers a dynamic range of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests and passions. From joining clubs and volunteering to exploring arts and sports, the city provides countless opportunities for students to enhance their academic journey. At Scholar Suites, we encourage you to dive into these activities, make new connections, and build a fulfilling student life experience.