English

Why study English?

The study of English builds essential knowledge to equip individuals to serve the wider world so that they can express themselves fluently and creatively and essentially become effective communicators and confident writers. Studying English helps individuals make sense of who they are by engaging with the world around them developing them culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially, and spiritually. It enhances an appreciation of other perspectives, opening new experiences. Reading, spoken language and writing are the cornerstones of success and we aim to equip our pupils with the knowledge to read critically, confidently and for pleasure; to be articulate in their spoken language; and to write effectively with style and accuracy for a wide range of purposes and audiences.

How will I study English?

Pupils will study English Language and English Literature to encourage understanding and appreciation of a wide range of literature. There is a blend of modern, pre-twentieth Century prose, poetry, drama and a variety of British fiction and non-fiction ranging from classics to more modern texts to allow pupils to engage with complex and sophisticated ideas. Pupils will read, reflect and critique constructing their own ideas and gain versatility in their own writing.

What will I study at key stage 3?

In Year 7, pupils begin by exploring a selection of inspiring non-fiction texts centred around the human experience, society and the environment, exploring a wide range of perspectives and developing personal ideas. Pupils also focus on consolidating and deepening their knowledge of crafting writing for genre, audience and purpose. Then, pupils develop their analytical knowledge and skills through a study of the ground-breaking novel, ‘A Monster Calls’. They then delve into the dystopian genre, developing an understanding of tropes and conventions before producing their own piece of dystopian writing. Pupils then finish with a study of performance poetry before creating and performing their own as the basis for their annual speaking and listening assessment.

In Year 8, pupils begin by studying a selection of powerful literary texts centred around war and conflict in its broadest sense – from World War One poetry to contemporary presidential speeches. Then, pupils engage with one of two innovative verse novels that centre on issues including race, gender, and discrimination. Later, pupils study a selection of Gothic literature, gaining a historical overview of the progression and conventions of this canonical genre; lastly, Pupils begin their KS3 study of Shakespeare with one of the bard’s best-loved comedies with a particular focus on dramatic method. This unit forms the foundation of their annual speaking and listening assessment.

In Year 9, pupils begin Y9 with a study of the short-story genre. Encountering a rich selection of socio-political short stories, pupils ultimately produce their own piece of writing within this genre. Then, pupils encounter a much-loved but challenging text: Charles’ Dickens’s ‘A Christmas Carol’, helping to build towards the demands of GCSE. Similarly, pupils go on to study another Shakespeare play – this time, a tragedy: Romeo and Juliet. In the final term, pupils engage with a selection of powerful non-fiction texts as they develop as critical thinkers and fluent communicators before finishing their KS3 course with a drama module, enabling them to devise innovative performances with peers.

What will I study at key stage 4?

During Year 10 and 11, pupils will study a range of literary fiction and literary non-fiction texts for GCSE Language and GCSE Literature. They will use critical material to enhance interpretation and articulate personal ideas clearly and cleverly. Pupils will study the set texts for the literature exam; Macbeth, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, AQA Poetry anthology of Love and Relationships and Lord of the Flies.
In addition, they will practise unseen analysis of a range of 19th, 20th and 21st century texts both fiction and non-fiction for GCSE Language and unseen poetry analysis for GCSE Literature. They will examine devices to manipulate writing and craft ideas.

What will I study at key stage 5?

In English Language, pupils study how English language is produced and used in different contexts. They explore a wide range of spoken and written texts and debate how language is affected by gender, religion, age, and occupation. Pupils have an opportunity to produce creative writing and investigate language. They develop understanding of language development over time and how the English language is spreading across the world.

In English Literature, pupils study a range of texts from the three major literary genres: prose, poetry, and drama with a strong emphasis on Shakespeare. They will also explore modern texts discussing key ideas and themes. There is a strong focus on wider and independent reading, particularly reading a range of texts across different genres, including Pre 1900 texts to increase knowledge about history and society fostering tolerance and understanding.

Assessment at Key Stage 4

GCSE English Language AQA 8700

GCSE English Language Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and writing

GCSE English Language Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives

NEA: Spoken Language

GCSE English Literature AQA 8702
GCSE English Literature Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th century novel

GCSE English Literature Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry

Assessment at Key Stage 5

A Level English Language Edexcel 9EN0

Component 01: Language variation

Component 02: Child language

Component 03: Investigating language

Component 04: NEA Crafting language

A Level English Literature Edexcel 9ET0

Component 1: Drama

Component 2: Prose

Component 3: Poetry

NEA

Careers

The study of English can lead to a range of career options, opening doors in publishing and advertising, journalism, education, and legal fields. Careers can range from reporter, solicitor, teacher, and content editor.

Useful resources and revision support

• AQA
• English Language
• Seneca learning
• Bitesize
• Mr Bruff
• Edexcel