The curriculum ensures that all students become effective readers, writers and communicators: fundamental skills to facilitate access to the whole curriculum and to ensure that our students achieve their future potential.  Students also learn how to make sense of the world through language, whether through the written or spoken word and they learn how to become part of a local and global community.

Students explore a wide range of texts from all genres and, through experiencing this curriculum, they develop a greater understanding of their own identity, as well as the importance of embracing social diversity.  By exploring sensitive topics such as race, social divide, slavery and prejudice, students learn the importance of compassion and understanding. They also gain a comprehensive understanding of the world, both constructed and literal, across the ages, and why writers use language to express their inner thoughts, in response to the context of place and time.

This approach not only builds a wide domain of knowledge around language and literature skills but also equips our students with the tools they need to succeed academically. The sequencing of the curriculum engenders a deeper understanding of the subject, with students becoming more thoughtful, perceptive and confident, as they prepare for success in their GCSEs and beyond.

Big Idea	Description
Reading	Read a wide range of fiction and non-fiction, with a comprehensive coverage of genres, historical periods, forms and authors; develop the skills to critically analyse texts, interpreting the meaning behind words; make inferences and refer to evidence in the text; understand the purpose, audience and context of the writing and draw on the knowledge to support comprehension; understand how language, including figurative language, vocabulary choices, grammar, text structure and organisational features present meaning;
Writing	Write confidently and effectively for a wide range of purposes, audiences and forms; accurately apply knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and text structure and select the appropriate form; accurately apply knowledge of literacy and rhetorical devices to enhance the impact of writing.
Speak and Listening	Speak confidently and effectively, using standard English; speak for a range of purposes, both formal and informal, including speeches, presentations, debates and structured discussions; listen attentively and respond effectively to others; apply precise linguistic and literary terminology in discussions; perform play scripts and poetry and analyse the language and conventions of each.

 

Year 7: Foundations of Storytelling

• Explore fiction and nonfiction texts, including myths and legends.
• Learn about the seven basic story types and their influence on morality.
• Examine heroism, villainy, ownership, and self-expression.

Year 8: Fear, Power & Prejudice

• Investigate the origins of fear and its link to possessiveness.
• Study power dynamics in love, hate, and control.
• Analyse themes of prejudice, justice, and empathy in To Kill a Mockingbird.

Year 9: Conflict & Communication

• Examine how individuals and societies respond to conflict.
• Explore dystopian themes, including free will and authoritarianism.
• Study rhetoric and persuasive language techniques.

Years 10 GCSE English Language

• Develop analytical and creative writing skills.
• Develop understanding of linguistic styles and use of literary techniques.

Years 10: GCSE English Literature

• Study key texts: Macbeth, A Christmas Carol, and some poetry from Power & Conflict.
• Analyse language, structure, and cultural/historical context.

Years 10 GCSE English Language

• Refine and enhance analytical and creative writing skills.
• Enhance accuracy, style, and use of literary techniques.
• Engage in critical thinking through diverse texts.

Years 11: GCSE English Literature

• Study key texts: An inspector Calls and the remaining poetry from Power & Conflict.
• Analyse language, structure, and cultural/historical context.
• Deepen appreciation of influential literary works.

A-Level English Language

• Investigate linguistic theory, sociolinguistics, and child language acquisition.
• Conduct independent research and produce original writing.
• Explore language’s role in shaping identity, power, and society.