In the English Department we aim to develop our pupils' confidence in both written and spoken English through a wide range of tasks and activities

In each year group we study a novel, drama text and poetry each term, dealing with a range of authors from classic to modern and providing a sound basis for GCSE and A Level study. All the members of staff enjoy bringing texts to life, studying a range of media and fostering an enjoyment of creative writing. We aim to raise awareness of contextual details using mixed media such as drama and film, as well as physical approaches to teaching through visual and creative exploration

An interactive whiteboard is shared between the English classrooms, each of which is equipped with TV & Video as well having access to additional projectors and DVD players. We share a satellite room with several PCs where we can undertake small group activities and discussions. Sixth form classes are taught in specialised seminar rooms.

Classroom activities are supplemented with engaging extra-curricular opportunities including regular theatre or cinema trips and workshops with visiting poets and authors or actors.

Our pupils are equipped to face formal exams at a time appropriate for their development: we currently offer one set early entry for OCR GCSE Literature in year 10, but expect all students by year 11 to achieve grades in Language and Literature which fulfil and, often exceed, their predicted scores. By encouraging independent study skills; fostering personal interpretation and then presentation of these views through speech and writing, in formal and informal contexts, we hope to produce a community of confident thinkers, writers and speakers who leave school with a lifelong love of literature.