English

English Curriculum

In English we will immerse ourselves in the power, complexity and variety of the English language. We will deepen our understanding of the ways written language shapes every aspect of the world we live in, and develop the potential of our own writing to serve as vehicle for analytical, critical and creative thinking.

We will develop our ‘literary landscape’ and expand our ‘cultural capital’, making us confident, independent and successful learners who achieve and appreciate the written word.

In Key Stage 3, we use a wide range of high quality and engaging texts to explore and develop pupils love of reading and understanding of the power and importance of language. Literature helps us make sense of the world around us. Ambitious and challenging, we filter down GCSE skills to pupils and complete transitional units at the end of year 9 to prepare pupils for their Key Stage 4 examinations.

In Key Stage 4, we begin the Key Stage 4 literature and language courses; two GCSE qualifications that test pupils reading and comprehension ability as well as their writing. Skills are transferable across both exams so the foundation laid in Key Stage 3 prepares pupils for success in both of these exams. Pupils sit all exams at the end of year 11. The papers are not tiered but classes are set appropriately to enhance pupils’ ability. Key Stage 4 follow the AQA English Language and Literature specification.