English

The major aims and objectives of the department are to develop pupils':

• writing, reading, and speaking and listening skills
• experience and critical appreciation of good writing, both literary and non-literary
• awareness of and knowledge about language
• critical understanding of modern media.

English is, of course, a core subject which teaches a whole range of skills of crucial importance in later life and plays a unique role in acquainting pupils with the rich variety of writing in English currently available.

English is studied by all pupils in Years 7 to 11, leading to separate qualifications in GCSE English and GCSE English Literature. The main focus of the department, however, is the teaching of English through literature, and an engaging variety of texts, from the traditional to the avant-garde, is used in all year groups.

Over the next few years, the department will specialize in developing pupils' debating skills and their wider independent reading. Regular debates are held throughout the year for pupils in all senior years. There are also regular opportunities to take part in school-based, local and national public speaking and debating competitions. The department has also recently acquired a large stock of new and interesting wider-reading fiction, drama, poetry and non-fiction and boasts excellent A Level, GCSE and KS3 libraries to help pupils develop as independent readers.

Examinations and Boards

GCSEs
English AQA A
English Literature AQA A

A-level
English Literature AQA B