Jun 19, 2013
English and Communication
English is a subject that all of our pupils need: we believe that it should be a subject they love too. There is something for everyone within English: students study a wide range of exciting authors, deconstruct various types of media texts and create many different forms of writing, as well as honing their spoken skills. As part of the joint specialism, we aim to not only raise achievement in English through quality teaching and high expectations, but also to raise achievement across the whole academy in innovative and exciting ways.
In English we work closely with the library to enhance students’ research skills and to foster a love of reading. Year 7 and 8 students participate in Renaissance Reading - a computer-based programme designed to improve literacy skills, which students can access at home as well as in school. We also offer many exciting extra-curricular opportunities, such as theatre visits, creative writing workshops with local authors and the opportunity to participate in national Poetry Slam competitions.
In English we offer a wide range of courses at all levels and believe strongly that students should gain accreditation when they are ready for it, rather than at a fixed age. Many of our current students gained a functional skills qualification in Year 9, and are now taking their GCSE English Language early. The courses offered at KS4/KS5 are:
- GCSE English Literature
- GCSE English Language
- GCSE Expressive Arts
- GCSE Media
- A Level English Language
- A Level Media Studies
- A Level Psychology
Please note: Sixth Form students will have to re-take GCSE English Language if they have not achieved a C grade.
