English

English develops pupils’ ability to read critically, write accurately and communicate with confidence.

At Key Stage 3, pupils study a broad range of novels, plays, poetry and non-fiction. Through these texts, they develop their understanding of character, themes, language and writers’ methods, whilst building the vocabulary and knowledge needed for increasingly sophisticated reading and writing.

At Key Stage 4, students study Eduqas GCSE English Language and English Literature. They apply the knowledge and skills developed at Key Stage 3 to a range of literary and non-fiction texts and develop their own creative, analytical and transactional writing.

Across both key stages, we place a strong emphasis on reading, clear written expression, discussion and the ability to support ideas with precise evidence.

Our aim is for all learners to:

• Communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in speech and writing.
• Become enthusiastic and critical readers who enjoy exploring literature.
• Develop the ability to analyse ideas and question the world around them.
• Form independent opinions while respecting the perspectives of others.
• Build resilience, independence and reflective thinking.
• Acquire strong literacy skills that support success across the curriculum and beyond school.

KS3 English

Over the 5 years that pupils study English, we interweave English Language and English Literature knowledge and skills in preparation for GCSE; we also introduce pupils to Media literacy, not only as an important life skill, but also for potential future GCSE study.

For more detailed information, please see our English Learning Journey. 

KS4 GCSE English Language and English Literature

At Key Stage 4, pupils study for two qualifications: Eduqas GCSE English Language and Eduqas GCSE English Literature.

In English Language, pupils develop their ability to read and analyse a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, as well as writing accurately and effectively for different purposes and audiences.

In English Literature, pupils study a range of novels, plays and poetry. They learn to analyse writers’ methods, explore themes and characters, compare texts and support interpretations with precise textual evidence.

Across both courses, pupils develop confident reading, clear written communication and the analytical skills needed for success at GCSE and beyond.

For more information, please see:

• Eduqas for English Language 
• Eduqas for English Literature
  
• GCSE English Language detailed subject information.
  
• GCSE English Literature detailed subject information.
  
• Media Studies.

Assessment and Feedback

Pupils are formally assessed in the Autumn and Spring Terms for all year groups. These assessments will include a mixture of knowledge recall questions and more skills-based written assessments. Once marked, pupils will receive their numerical mark and its attainment descriptor (well above, above, at expected, working towards or below expected), which will inform the pupil report home and discussions with parents at parents’ evenings.

Throughout all key stages, in-class, formative assessment takes place which helps us to identify and understand individual pupil progress and enables us to adapt our teaching accordingly. This is through a range of approaches, such as self and peer assessment, quizzes and regular questioning and modelling, using clear, pupil-friendly success criteria.

Homework

At Key Stage Three, pupils are expected to complete 15 minutes’ reading per day, one Tassomai class task each week, and their weekly Tassomai goal.

At Key Stage Four, pupils are also expected to complete their weekly goals and class tasks on Tassomai. In addition, they will receive tasks from their class teacher, including revision, reading tasks and practice examination questions.

Enrichment Opportunities

We offer a debate club with opportunities to take part in public speaking competitions and an online magazine which we will enter for the Shine Media Awards. There are also various opportunities to attend theatre trips and film/theatre screenings throughout the year.