Maru-a-Pula's afternoon programme is, quite simply, different. We call it 'SPE': made up of Service, Physical and Enrichment activities.  

For us, afternoon activities are 'co-curricular,' not 'extra-curricular'. That’s because lessons learned outside the classroom are important – often more important than those learned inside.

For MaP students, 'Service' is a hands-on experience of helping people.   It's the one part of our afternoon programme that is absolutely required at every level, every week, for every student.  No exceptions.

For some students, MaP Service might mean piling into a combi and travelling up the road to:

• Feed elderly and destitute families, or children who would otherwise miss out on a lunchtime meal. We deliver and serve food (and wash up afterwards!), often raising funds to buy the necessary provisions.
• Teach Mathematics, English or Moral Education to children in government schools and private organisations.
• Visit sick or disabled children to play with them and brighten their day.

For other students, MaP Service means staying on campus to:

• Help peers with their studies or by counselling them.
• Assist teachers and technicians in academic departments or in the library.
• Plan activities to make new students feel welcome.
• Recycle waste or practise organic gardening.
• Lead & Launch school-wide initiatives through the Student Advisory Council.  
• Edit our Yearbook.
• Write articles or take photos for monthly newsletters.

The Physical programme includes aerobics, badminton, judo, yoga, skateboarding, softball, squash, table tennis, touch rugby and Latin American Dance.  The list of activities grows and changes as student interests dictate.  

All this is in addition to our champion basketball and cricket sides along with robust training and teams in swimming, rugby, football, athletics, netball, tennis, badminton and long-distance running.

Our Enrichment activities include our internationally-acclaimed marimba band, our national champion debating club, chess, business club, bridge, woodcraft, clay club, choir, individual tuition in various musical instruments, cookery and glass decoupage. We have several different computer-based activities – programming, website authoring - and a quiz club. Many students pursue their passion for music or drama in these afternoon slots too.

There is something for everyone in our SPE Programme. We welcome new ideas and involvement from all quarters, including parents and the wider community.