Mr N S Taylor - Head of Department
Mrs A Webb
Mrs J I Duffield
Mr T D Hughes
Mr R H Grayson
Mrs S J Lord
Mr D McPherson
Mr A Whittaker
Mr N Taylor

Our major aims and objectives in the department are to develop

• writing, reading and listening skills
  
• an enjoyment of good writing from any source
  
• awareness of and knowledge about language
  
• media awareness

General information about the department

English is studied by all pupils in Years 7 to 11. Our main, but not exclusive, focus is the teaching of English through literature, and we use an exciting range of texts, traditional and avant-garde, in all year groups. We review the stock every year.

After Year 11 many pupils use their acquired English skills in some form, either through studying the subject at AS or A2 level, in General Studies, Drama or any subject which requires essay-writing. By means of weekly departmental meetings the staff try to ensure a unified approach to the subject. We insist on work being done on time, and whenever possible it is returned during the first lesson after it has been handed in. Corrections must be done immediately. We like to think that we develop a good rapport with our pupils and value cheerful goodwill from them.

Every year we have workshop sessions for various year groups involving visiting writers, poets and/or professional theatre groups.

Visits to theatres are an important part of the work of the English Department, each form visiting at least once during the year, if possible. Those studying Advanced level English are encouraged to join parties to Stratford, London, Sheffield, Newcastle, York, Leeds and elsewhere. We are fortunate in having two good local theatres where party bookings are regularly taken up by staff and students.

We are a very close-knit department. Over many years the staff have built up a mutual understanding of good practice which allows us to make the best use of our time and resources.

S Taylor