Intent

Studying English at Connaught is an opportunity for students to develop and extend their skills as confident communicators, in both speaking and writing. Our aim is to encourage individual expression and a sense of self, while stimulating empathy and tolerance of others.  It is likewise an opportunity for students to develop as confident readers and students of literature.  Our aim is to encourage the reading of a wide range of fiction and non-fiction to develop analytical skills and critical thinking.  We endeavour to nurture a love of reading and an understanding and appreciation of literature – both classic and contemporary; we are keen to share our experience of reading as a constant source of personal growth.  In striving for excellence, we aim to challenge our students both academically as well as broadening their horizons.  We present varied views, attitudes and outlooks from writers from diverse backgrounds – aiming to teach a curriculum that is challenging and inclusive.

Implementation

• To develop communication skills in spoken language, the English classroom is a place to voice opinions, challenge ideas and express feelings: we encourage debate, class discussions and the possibility to listen, question and respond to others.
• To develop written communication, students have the freedom to write imaginatively and stimulate their creativity.  Additionally, we support students in presenting ideas in a range of styles from persuasive texts to information texts and critical arguments.  Students can develop and master skills in using varied punctuation, sentence structure as well as broadening their vocabulary and use of rhetoric.
• English classes are set up in group tables to encourage students to share ideas, work collaboratively, benefit from peer support and continually challenge themselves to reach their full potential. 
• Students are equally challenged throughout KS3 and KS4 to develop their skills to be self-reflective and to take ownership of their own learning so as to become confident and independent learners.
• The curriculum in English is structured to ensure that skills and concepts introduced in Year 7 are developed through to GCSE, with lessons providing scope for these skills to be developed, embedded, applied and mastered.  
• Each unit of work begins building on prior knowledge and experience before extending learning with new ideas and skills; students are given time to plan their work, monitor their progress and evaluate their work.  English teachers support and facilitate learning, providing feedback to guide students in progressing.
• Clubs, extracurricular activities and trips augment students’ learning by broadening their experience of literature and enabling more in depth study of texts or topics.
• At Connaught, we prioritise the study of a wide range of texts to reflect diversity and develop wider understanding of English’s place as a world language and literature.  By studying inclusive and varied texts, students feel they can relate and engage with texts and likewise express their own experiences.

Impact

Students can pursue their studies in a range of subjects, confident that they can communicate ideas that reflect their wide ranging knowledge, understanding, empathy and views on subjects ranging from history, politics and society.  The study of English Language and Literature will skill them in analytical and evaluative skills, while giving them a critical voice and the confidence to express their own ideas.  Literature will engender a lifelong love of reading and Language will enable students to give voice to their thoughts.  The rigorous curriculum and inclusive and varied choice of texts empower students to pursue further independent study and prepare them for future careers. 

KS3:

At KS3 students are assessed using the descriptors: beginner, basic, simple, clear, appropriate, good, accurate, detailed, perceptive and excellent.

We study a range of reading texts (both fiction and non-fiction) to develop students’ skills in interpreting, analysing and evaluating texts.  Texts are then used as models to develop students’ writing skills – writing in a range of styles both imaginative writing and transactional writing.

We read and study a range of literature texts, including Shakespeare plays, modern drama, 19th century prose, contemporary fiction and poetry.  Students are also encouraged to develop their independent reading through the use of the online reading programme Accelerated Reader.

Spoken language is developed throughout the teaching of language and literature.

KS4:

Students’ work at KS4 is assessed using the 9-1 grade system.  At Connaught, we follow the Edexcel GCSE curriculum and students write four exams at the end of Year 11 to attain a GCSE grade in English Language and English Literature.