English

Curriculum Intent

The English Faculty is committed to fostering a profound appreciation for language, literature, and communication. Our curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and effective expression in students.

We prioritise the development of strong reading, writing, and analytical skills, enabling students to engage with diverse texts and perspectives. Through a balanced blend of classic and contemporary literature, as well as multimedia resources, we aim to ignite a passion for lifelong learning. Our intent is to empower students with the linguistic proficiency and cultural awareness necessary for success both in school and the wider society. We strive to create an inclusive and dynamic learning environment that nurtures curiosity and encourages students to become articulate, informed, and empathetic contributors to society.

English at A Level aims to deepen students' literary understanding and analytical skills. Focusing on diverse genres and cultural perspectives, the curriculum intends to foster critical thinking, advanced communication, and independent research. Students engage with classic and contemporary literature, developing their ability to articulate complex ideas and respond to nuanced texts. The curriculum emphasises creative expression, honing language proficiency, and preparing students for higher education or professional pursuits by cultivating an appreciation for literature and effective communication.

Key Stage 5 Curriculum

A Level English Language and Literature AQA 7707
Exam Board Specification: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/as-and-a-level/english-language-and-literature-7706-7707

A Level English Literature AQA 7712
Exam Board Specification: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/as-and-a-level/english-literature-a-7711-7712

We offer A Level English Literature and A Level English Language and Literature.

A Level English Literature key skills:

• read widely and independently both set texts and others that they have selected for themselves
• engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them
• develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation
• explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others’ interpretations of them
• undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen their appreciation and understanding of English literature, including its changing traditions

A Level English Language and Literature key skills:

• develop and apply their understanding of the concepts and methods appropriate for the analysis and study of language
• use linguistic and literary approaches in their reading and interpretation of texts, showing how the two disciplines can relate to each other
• engage creatively and critically with a wide range of texts
• explore the ways in which texts relate to each other and the contexts in which they are produced and received
• develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language
• develop their interest in and enjoyment of English as they undertake independent and sustained studies to develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language

Key Stage 5 English Literature Curriculum MapKey Stage 5 English Language and Literature Curriculum Map