Curriculum Intent for English

English is a foundation, core subject where students build their confidence and expertise in reading, writing, speaking and listening. We aim to instil in our students a love of reading and books, as well as to empower them to be independent and resilient members of society, equipped with the communication tools they need to get the best possible outcomes in life and at work.

 

At Key Stage 3, we offer a broad range of study closely aligned to the National Curriculum, including:

• developing an appreciation and love of reading, supported by visits to our library and participation in our reading reward scheme;

• building an understanding of challenging texts across genres, including novels, poetry and plays;

• the ability to critically analyse and evaluate texts, using appropriate subject terminology;

• developing accurate, fluent and effective writing skills for a range of purposes and audiences;

• improving the use of Standard English grammar and vocabulary in writing and speech;

• reflecting on and proofreading written work in order to make improvements;

• practising speaking and listening (oracy) skills through speeches, drama and debate.

 

At Key Stage 4, we use the AQA exam board. For GCSE English Literature, our curriculum focuses on:

• the study of four texts: Shakespeare’s Macbeth, A Christmas Carol for nineteenth-century fiction, the play An Inspector Calls and Power & Conflict poetry;

• analysis and evaluation of the writer’s craft, building towards writing sustained, critical essays.

 

For GCSE English Language, our curriculum focuses on:

• analysis and evaluation of fiction and non-fiction texts, including inference, summarising and comparison;

• developing effective and engaging creative and persuasive writing for a range of purposes.

 

At Key Stage 5, we use the AQA exam board for A Level English Language and Literature. Our curriculum focuses on:

• the study of two novels, one play and a collection of poetry in preparation for examination tasks;

• developing critical thinking skills for analysing language across literary and non-literary texts;

• connecting the study of language and literature to the wider world, exploring how it has shaped culture, society and history;

• developing a fluent, critical voice to be used to independently write extended coursework.