Our Curriculum

English

Our English curriculum unlocks the power of language through diverse texts and critical thinking.

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Curriculum Intent

Our English curriculum opens a window to the wider world, offering students the chance to engage with a broad spectrum of fiction and non-fiction. Through these texts, students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world, building a rich vocabulary and advanced inference skills to effectively express their ideas and emotions. By engaging with varied perspectives, they also grow in empathy and understanding of others. We encourage students to express themselves through various forms, including rhetoric and narrative writing, while fostering critical reflection and a strong command of English terminology. Our aim is to equip all students with the skills and knowledge necessary for further study of English beyond GCSE.

Key Stage 3

Taught through 4.5 x 55-minute periods each week

At Key Stage 3, we focus on laying the foundation for high-level analysis and inference. Students explore a wide range of texts, including tragedies, from different cultures and time periods, ensuring exposure to diverse voices. Vocabulary development is a key priority, allowing students to articulate their own viewpoints and inferences. Reading is central to the curriculum, with students benefiting from weekly library lessons and participation in the accelerated reader programme.

Key Stage 4

Taught through 5 x 55-minute periods each week (6 for Year 11)

We follow the AQA specification, studying texts such as Macbeth, An Inspector Calls, A Christmas Carol, and the Power and Conflict Poetry anthology. Students also refine their descriptive and persuasive writing skills. Our goal is to provide them with the tools they need to pursue English studies at A Level and beyond.