English
The English Curriculum seeks to ‘Educate for Life’ by ensuring that all students study examples of the most ‘beautiful’ and ‘best’ that has ever been written thus equipping them with essential knowledge to engage critically with the world around them.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9)
Our KS3 English curriculum aims to develop articulate, thoughtful, and imaginative communicators who can read, write, and speak with confidence and purpose. We want every pupil to experience the power of language: how it shapes ideas, expresses identity, and influences the world around us. Through studying a rich and diverse range of texts, from classic literature to contemporary voices, pupils learn to appreciate the depth and variety of human experience, and experience literature as an art form in its own right.
We aim to build strong foundations in reading by teaching pupils to analyse how writers craft meaning, use evidence effectively, and respond critically to ideas and viewpoints. Pupils learn to explore themes, characters, and contexts, developing the ability to interpret texts with insight and independence.
In writing, pupils learn to express themselves with clarity, creativity, and control. They develop a secure understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and structure, enabling them to craft writing for a range of purposes and audiences. We encourage pupils to experiment with language, refine their work through drafting, and take pride in their written voice.
Oracy is central to our curriculum. Pupils learn to articulate ideas clearly, listen respectfully, and engage in discussion and debate. They develop confidence in presenting, performing, and collaborating with others.
Ultimately, our intent is for pupils to leave KS3 as competent, reflective readers; confident, capable writers; and thoughtful, articulate speakers who are ready to succeed in KS4 and beyond.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
Our KS4 English Language and English Literature curriculums are designed to prepare pupils for success in English Language and Literature GCSE using the AQA exam board.
Building on strong foundations from KS3, pupils will learn to apply the core concepts in English and will read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts covering the 19th, 20th and 21st century time periods. They will learn to write clearly, coherently and accurately using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and will speak confidently and competently. They will read a wide range of classic literature fluently and with good understanding, and make connections across their reading, appreciate the depth and power of the English literary heritage, and write accurately, effectively and analytically about their reading
As well as leaving KS4 with a strong qualification in GCSE English Language, our intent is that this curriculum sets pupils up with the skills that will allow them to pursue a future in many related careers.
