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In English the students follow an integrated programme, addressing the areas of the National Curriculum: reading, writing, speaking and listening. They study a very wide range of texts, covering prose, poetry, drama, including plays by Shakespeare, and media texts. Approaches are active and lively. The aim is to develop the students' critical and creative responses and to nurture their ICT and linguistic skills. Drama is taught as part of the English curriculum in Key Stage 3. Where possible visits to the theatre are arranged so that students can see the plays they are studying.
Key Stage 3
We follow an integrated course covering the essential strands of the National Curriculum. Over the three years we read multi-modal texts and texts from across the genres. Students are taught to adapt their writing styles for audience and purpose. We encourage pupils to read independently and become more confident in the expression of their ideas and opinions through speaking and listening. Drama forms an important part of the English curriculum. Classes are of mixed ability.
Key Stage 4
At GCSE we follow the OCR English Language and English Literature specifications. The classes are mixed ability. We study a range of texts including Shakespeare, a modern play and two post-1914 novels. Poetry forms part of both specifications. Assessment is via modular examinations and controlled assessment. Speaking and listening is an assessed component of the course, covering the contexts of drama, group interaction and individual talk.
Key Stage 5
At AS/A2 level we follow the Edexcel Literature course. There are four groups in each of years 12 and 13. The course consists of six examined modules.
The Ofsted report of February 2005 described the department’s work as excellent and the achievement of the students as outstanding.
The department aims to share their love of literature and language and inspire students with their enthusiasm.
See the World Book Day 2010
