In a recent faculty review conducted by the school, English Key Stage 3 schemes of work were found to be exemplary. They provide each student with optimum opportunities to achieve success in each of the four key skill areas of the National Curriculum. The Faculty reading programme aims at developing high levels of skills in and enthusiasm for reading. Speaking and Listening is taught formally within the faculty's schemes of work and the range of formal and informal activities include drama and debating.
All work done by students in all areas is marked and recorded and these records are used to form regular formal assessment of each student's progress.
The English faculty's work at improving the literacy skills of all ages and at all levels of ability and achievement is at the very heart of the schools drive towards better literacy.
At the heart of English teaching at the school is the belief that students learn not only from their teachers but from each other, and so units in all Key Stages have at least some element of group work in them.
The faculty also believes that a student's English education must extend beyond the classroom. Many homework assignments require a level of family/parental involvement. Creative writing for publication in anthologies and the local press is actively encouraged and students from all years regularly have work published in the school newspaper Pressing Matters.
Year 7 classes are taught initially in their mixed ability tutor groups. At the end of the half term some changes are made so that support and extension can be offered. Years 8,9,10 and 11 are divided into upper and lower bands.
Almost all year 11 students take two GCSEs; English and English Literature through the NEAB examining board. In recent years the pass rates have been very good with over 50% of students achieving grade C or higher. Drama is also taught to GCSE level through SEG examining board. The current year 11 group is our first class to be examined.
A level Literature is a popular option in the sixth form and we have a virtual 100% pass rate at A level in recent years. A level Media Studies is also taught.
The English Faculty provides many enriching extra curricular activities. Actors and TIE groups are regularly brought in to the school so that students can enhance their understanding and enjoyment of Shakespeare. Year 9 students are offered a trip to Stratford on Avon each year. A level and GCSE Drama students regularly attend professional live theatre performances.
Children's Literature Web Guide