English

Curriculum

The Faculty is fully staffed with eight full time specialists. All pupils follow an integrated programme of speaking, listening, reading and writing at Key Stages 3 and 4. At KS3 we offer an integrated programme of study following the Secondary National Strategy. At KS4 we follow the WJEC board and offer English GCSE to all and English Literature GCSE to the majority of pupils. The Faculty focuses on improving pupils' literacy skills across both key stages equipping them with the skills for further learning and the world of work. The English Curriculum aims for pupils to become successful learners who enjoy learning, make progress and achieve.

The importance of English

English is vital for communicating with others in school and in the wider world, and is fundamental to learning in all curriculum subjects. In studying English, pupils develop skils in speaing, listening, reading and writing that they will need to participate in society and employment. Pupils learn to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and to communicate with others confidently and effectively. English lends itself well to developing pupils' attitudes, values and personal qualities. The literature texts that we study cover spiritual, cultural and moral issues. Pupils learn to become critical readers of stories, poetry and drama as well as non-fiction and media texts.

Pupils have the opportunity to experience theatre productions and take part in workshops. We currently provide opportunities to enter local and national competions. The Faculty has its own annual magazine, 'The Peacock' which celebrates pupils' achievement; it is currently on its 8th edition.

The Faculty has strong links with local primary schools and offers a liaison programme throughout the year working with Year 5 & 6 pupils.

Reading

We place great emphasis on creating a love of reading. Reading generally enables pupils to become part of the wider community which connects them with words, culture and imagination. The Faculty are working towards creating a whole school reading ethos through the following initiatives:-

Year 6 pupils creating postcards for their new Year 7 form rooms
KS3 form groups have a reading tutorial
Pupils have wider reading journals and visit the school library and a local library
Reading Buddy scheme - Year 11 pupils help Year 7 pupils with their reading
SIxth form pupils come in once a week to read with Year 9 pupils
Annual Readathon - raising money for Sergent Cancer Care
Reading Calendar - events planned throughout the year
Library newsletter
Reading Champions and Reading Angels - motivational framework designed to engage boys and girls in developing a reading culture
Reading The Game - National Literacy Trust initiative which works with professional footballers to promote literacy using the motivational power of football to encourage reading for all ages

Extra curricular activities