We believe that pupils deserve a broad and ambitious English curriculum, rich in skills and knowledge, which ignites curiosity and prepares them well for future learning or employment.

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Knowledge in English:

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Our curriculum will provide pupils with the powerful knowledge that can too often be hidden from view and in doing so help to make the implicit, explicit.

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• Pupils to understand that behind every text ever written there is writer’s intent.

• Pupils to know that we can and should make predictions about any text both fiction and non-fiction by asking a set of initial questions both of fiction and non-fiction texts.

• There is a set of fundamental universal and timeless themes/ideas that influence the intentions of writers and transcend the boundaries of time. E.g. Class divide, abuse of power, gender boundaries and inequality.

• Pupils to know that they are connected to these universal and timeless themes/ideas and this can inform their own personal responses to a text.

• To understand and acquire a control over language both written and spoken so that students can discover the potential power it can have and can give

 

Skills in English - pupils will be able to:

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• read complex passages confidently and methodically, in order to breakdown the language and structure to establish and analyse meaning;

• demonstrate mastery of reading through discussion and writing;

• enjoy a wide range of fiction and non-fiction texts which help them to connect with the world around them;

• develop cultural capital that will help remove barriers to achievement in school, future learning and the world of work;

• write clearly, fluently and accurately in plain English, showing flair and creativity where appropriate;

• develop detailed ideas in writing, adapting language to audience and purpose;

• use a wide range of appropriate and ambitious vocabulary with precision;

• produce ‘beautiful work’ of which they can be proud;

• in talk, articulate and express their ideas, views and opinions about a wide range of topics clearly, confidently and respectfully;

• develop their character, including resilience, confidence and independence, so that they contribute positively to the life of the school, their local community and the wider environment.