Words, stories and poems (Language and Literature) allow us to open the door to the past, the future, different worlds and other cultures. Through these lenses we are able to explore and test our own beliefs, to wonder and to make lifelong connections to the ideas and characters we are introduced to. It is our pleasure to share these experiences with the students we teach.
The writing we love also gives us a rich and vibrant vocabulary with which to communicate. It is from this that a love of language is born – working with words and structures to create an image for a given audience. To be able to engage an audience when speaking, to skilfully convince and passionately voice an opinion in writing or in speech are skills that will see you through life at every stage.
The objective of the English Department’s curriculum is to ensure that, by the end of their compulsory education our students are able to articulate their ideas and opinions thoughtfully and with confidence. Their time with us will also mean that they are able to successfully navigate their way through a variety of texts and mediums. Students will be able to express themselves both creatively and factually when writing, taking care to adhere to common spelling, punctuation and grammar rules.
While adhering to the national curriculum and demands of examination courses, we also work towards a curriculum which is relevant, varied and enjoyable. Therefore, English lessons should be engaging and inclusive to enable all students to feel safe in contributing and working to the best of their ability in a mutually supportive atmosphere.