The value of English in the curriculum? What can I say? Without English, nothing. And without good English, nothing very well.
Anne Fine, Author
English is a vital way of communicating in school, in public life and internationally. Literature in English is rich and influential, reflecting the experience of people from many countries and times. In studying English pupils develop skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. It enables them to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and to communicate with others effectively. Pupils learn to become enthusiastic and critical readers of stories, poetry and drama as well as non-fiction and media texts.
In years 7, 8 and 9 pupils follow a broad and balanced curriculum. This includes the study of modern novels including titles such as Abomination by Robert Swindells; Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo; Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman. Each year there is a Shakespeare Unit of Work where teachers choose the most appropriate text for the group and balance the study of comedies, histories and tragedies. Pupils will also undertake Creative and Discursive Writing as well as the study of Media/Non-Fiction Units and Drama. All pupils analyse a range of Poetry from other cultures and historical periods, often culminating in the writing of their own verses.
Pupils also spend one lesson each week in the Library where they follow an online Accelerated Reading Programme which is designed to promote wider reading and to raise the reading age of all children. Pupils also have the chance to attend an annual residential course to one of the Arvon Centres, where they work alongside a writer or poet for a week and perfect their creative skills! Trips to the theatre are run for all year groups at different times of the year, often in conjunction with the Drama Department.
At GCSE the majority of pupils take English (Language) and Literature. These are separate qualifications but are taught alongside each other for the duration of the course.
A good book, studied with a good English teacher, takes you on a journey in search of answers to the crucial questions in life you didn't even know you wanted (or needed) to ask.
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