In this section:

• Overview
• Pre-Prep Department
• Prep Department
• Year 3 and 4 Department
• Art Department
• Classics Department
• Design and Technology Department
• English Department
  • Romeo and Juliet
  • Stratford-upon-Avon and Rugby
  • The Globe Theatre Trip
  • Battle of the Somme
  • Henry V
• French Department
• Geography Department
• History Department
• ICT Department
• Maths Department
• Music Department
• RE Department
• Science Department
• Examination Revision

English Department

The English Department follows the National Curriculum and, in doing so, adheres to its attainment targets. Pupils are taught to read with understanding and discernment. They are encouraged to speak and listen with an awareness of audience and purpose. They are also taught to write accurately and appropriately. It is understood that what is worked on in English underpins all other subjects.

 

The teachers of English promote a diverse and lively approach that incorporates traditional values such as placing emphasis on the importance of good spelling, punctuation and grammar. Knowledge about language and to spell and punctuate correctly is developed through analysis of the pupils' writing as well as formal grammar exercises. Every effort is made to give pupils an understanding of their language, as well as the skills that will serve them throughout life.

Accomplished written and spoken English fosters self-expression, effective communication and exploration of ideas. A balance is therefore sought between oral and written skills. In developing each child's ideas, sensibility and judgement, pupils are encouraged to write creatively and to widen their vocabulary. They also participate in a variety of oral activities such as discussions, debates, prose-and-poetry readings and public speaking.

 

English is taught as far as possible through literature. Plays, poems, novels and short stories are studied by classes as a whole and through guided individual choices. Teachers aim to develop pupils' abilities to relate to the historical, cultural and social contexts of their reading, with emphasis placed on discussion and the formation of individual opinions.

 

Outside the classroom, an impressive, well-equipped theatre is a focus for the performing arts. All age-groups have opportunities to appear on stage. Contributions vary from short assembly presentations to full theatrical productions. Shakespearean plays have featured prominently in recent years and teachers have supplemented performances with trips to Stratford-upon-Avon and the Globe in London.

Pupils exceed expectations because they benefit from specialist teaching, small groups and expansive opportunities. The system allows for clear targets to be set for individual work. Additional assistance is provided by an English Foreign Language teacher and there are close links with the Learning Support Department. Throughout the year, there are regular meetings between staff to maintain a progressive, holistic approach to an absorbing subject that plays a key role within the School.