English.

Head of Faculty:  Mr Stephen Bywater

English Language

Within English, pupils work on the following four areas, reading, writing, speaking and listening. All aspects of the English curriculum are supported by the extensive English Faculty Resources.

Reading and Writing

The fundamentals of reading and writing are continually re-visited through the teaching of grammar and spelling, through literary analysis, and through writing pieces which require them to use different styles and registers.

Speaking and Listening

There is also a strong emphasis on oral work throughout the English curriculum and pupils are taught to communicate with clarity, confidence and purpose in a variety of different forums.

They are also taught and encouraged to use ICT effectively to complement their work within English.

English Literature

Seeks to deepen each pupil's understanding of texts by placing them in a wider context. Pupils are expected to undertake research concerning a text's historical, generic and critical background - thereby gaining a better understanding of the moral and social issues within the novel, play or poem. We therefore encourage pupils to use the school library, local libraries, dvds, cds and the internet for background study; often setting them an individual topic to research and present.

Co-Curricular

The English and Film Faculty is also keen to offer pupils a range of co curricular activities.

- English Society for Sixth Form students.

- Creative Writing Club for all Years.

- Trips to the Theatre, lectures, museums, film screenings and other events are frequently organised.

- The Harpur Trust English Society also organises meetings and social events.

In English and Film Studies at A Level we therefore aim to develop creativity whilst equipping each pupil with the tools to express him or herself appropriately, accurately and confidently. We provide a positive and pleasant environment that promotes critical analysis, communication and the consideration of the views of others through the use of texts and class discussion.

English Language and Literature, Film Studies and English Literature are studied at AS/A2 Level.