Curriculum Intent
The English curriculum aims to develop confident, articulate and critical readers, writers and speakers through the study of a rich and diverse range of literary and non-fiction texts. Through exploring themes such as morality, power, identity and human experience, students build the literacy, analytical and communication skills needed to succeed academically and engage thoughtfully with the world around them.
English will teach spiritual development by exploring themes such as conscience, justice, ambition, love, prejudice, responsibility and redemption through texts including Jessica’s Ghost, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Animal Farm, Blood Brothers and A Christmas Carol. Poetry and wider reading opportunities also allow students to consider nature, memory, conflict and personal identity,
English will teach social excellence by developing students’ ability to communicate effectively, collaborate respectfully and engage thoughtfully with the experiences and perspectives of others. Through the study of diverse texts such as The Bone Sparrow and dystopian fiction, students explore themes of social responsibility, justice, inequality and community, encouraging empathy and an understanding of the wider world.
English will teach academic excellence through a carefully sequenced and ambitious curriculum that develops students’ reading, writing and analytical skills over time. Through studying challenging texts, including Shakespeare, poetry and 19th-century literature, students build cultural capital, critical thinking and academic confidence. Explicit teaching of grammar, vocabulary and oracy ensures students communicate accurately and effectively, while regular retrieval, discussion and extended writing help students become resilient, independent learners prepared for GCSE and beyond.
Students and Parents/Carers:
To find out how our curriculum is planned and sequenced, see our subject learning journey below:
