Staffing Information
Head of Department is Mrs. M. Hill

English Extranet

English is taught by a lively team of specialists. The subject develops a number of skills including sensitivity to language, ability to analyse texts and creativity.

Work is sometimes divided into thematic units: for example, a Shakespeare Research Project, Myths and Legends or Media. Students study a range of text types covering prose (fiction and non-fiction), poetry and plays, and are given opportunities to develop their writing skills in a variety of ways. Drama and Speaking and Listening activities bring another dimension to lessons. We also place considerable value on accuracy in writing as this is the lens through which ideas are viewed. Students are encouraged to become independent learners and the department actively fosters a spirit of enquiry in the girls.

Key Stage 4 work is strongly influenced by the requirements of the GCSE specifications in Enlgish Language and English Literature, whish comprise Controlled Assessments and terminal examinations.  Current topics include Information and Ideas texts, Pride and Prejudice (a popular choice with our students), Of Mice and Men and Journey's End.

Key Stage 5: A Level Literature includes the in-depth study of poetry, prose and drama. Texts include Talking Heads by Alan Bennett, Philip Larkin's poetry and Oscar Wilde's, The Picture Of Dorian Gray at AS. At A2, we study works by Shakespeare, Jane Austen and Chaucer. We encourage independent learning, and personal preferences, through enabling students to select their own third texts for coursework from a shortlist provided by the department.

At all Key Stages, we try to lift our gaze beyond the everyday and discuss the importance of reading for pleasure, and to develop a greater awareness of the world around us. Wider independent reading is regarded as particularly important during the GCSE years, as preparation for Key Stage 5.