English
English is a vital form of communication in school, public life and internationally.
We place great importance on the development of students' skills over the three main language areas: spoken language, reading and writing. Emphasis is placed on basic literacy skills over all key stages. Literacy is an essential tool for the development of students' skills in English. As well as lessons of English each week, students also spend time in their own learning groups developing basic literacy and language skills.
There is a strong emphasis in these sessions on developing students phonological awareness as well as developing their reading, writing and spelling skills.
At each key stage students are encouraged to express themselves creatively and imaginatively through a varied and stimulating programme of study.
Areas of focus include:
- Novel study
- Writing stories
- Plays/drama and role play
- Shakespeare
- Advertising
- Reading comprehension
- Writing letters and emails
- Speeches/debating
- Film study and the Media
- Research
Students have the opportunity to gain qualifications in English throughout Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4.
Qualifications currently offered to students are Step Up to English, Functional Skills Level 1 and 2 and GCSE.