English

English is the study of communication, both written and oral, through the rich tapestry of texts and voices from a range of diverse cultures and historical traditions. By building empathy and appreciating the lived experience of those different from us, students will explore the wonder and technicalities of the English language, enabling the expert communicators in all to speak and write effectively.

In KS3, students will build on the KS2 technical knowledge of the language as well as the reading and writing skills developed in the primary journey. Students will explore, analyse and evaluate the language and structure of a range of texts, including reading fiction from different cultures and time periods as well as  non-fiction, drama and poetry from a range of authors and poets. Students will be grounded in the communicative traditions of the ancients before exploring a range of Shakespeare pieces, Romanticism and the Gothic as well as other seminary texts. Amongst this, students will learn the craft of writing with intent; exploring rhetoric and the art of considered storytelling, students will become competent writers themselves.

In KS4 students are provided with a rich and diverse learning experience. Throughout these pivotal years, our students delve into a variety of texts and themes that not only enhance their academic skills but also foster critical thinking and personal growth. Year 10 is marked by an exploration of iconic works such as ‘Macbeth’, ‘An Inspector Calls’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’, alongside a study of poignant ‘Power and Conflict’ poetry from the AQA selected anthology. Students learn to analyse complex characters, historical contexts, and literary techniques, developing their ability to craft insightful essays and articulate nuanced interpretations. Year 11 builds on this foundation, with a focus on unseen poetry and advanced language skills. Students refine their abilities in both fiction and non-fiction writing, honing their skills through rigorous assessments and personalised exam preparation. Our aim is to give every student the opportunity  to become a confident communicator, capable of expressing their ideas with clarity and conviction. By engaging with a broad spectrum of literary forms and themes, students not only prepare for their GCSEs but also gain a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it.

In KS5 students will with study English Language or English Literature

English Language: Students will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge of the frameworks of language before applying this to analysing texts, meanings and representations. Students will explore studies and theories, discovering the academic arguments across the varieties and diversity of the English language as well as exploring the journey of child language acquisition and language change.

English Literature: Students will explore a rich tapestry of texts from diverse authors historical traditions, deepening understanding and appreciation of the English literary canon from prose, poetry and drama. Students will build empathy by appreciating the lived experience of those from different times, places and worlds from us by embracing all the complexities of  literary analysis within a world of exciting, stimulating and enjoyable texts.

Hours of lessons per fortnight for this subject:

- KS3: 10

- KS4 GCSE : 8

- KS5: 8

AQA GCSE English Language

AQA GCSE English Literature

AQA A Level English Language

EDUQAS A Level English Literature

Fully equipped classrooms with seven classrooms with computers, a well-stocked library with a range of both fiction and non-fiction books.

The department offers many enrichment clubs and organises a range of theatre trips throughout the year. Pupils are able to take part in school-wide writing competitions, as well as representing the school in national events for the chance to be published.