The English Department delivers a curriculum which exposes students to a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, from a range of periods in literature pre and post 1900. Fiction texts include a range of poetry, prose and drama, whilst non-fiction looks at articles, speeches, travel writing etc. 

The curriculum considers the context of our school; looking at writers from the local area where possible and the female voice, whether that be through female protagonists or writers. It also actively focusses on allowing students to consider the social, cultural and historical context in which the text is set, and the impact this has upon the reader. Students are encouraged to consider the writer’s purpose and make relevant connections to wider agendas. 

We aim to foster a love of literature through engaging lessons and actively encourage independent reading through regular lessons in the library. The teaching of English Language will equip students to have key transferable skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening which will directly benefit them in their future and the workplace.   

The curriculum provides students with the skills to work independently, think critically, be evaluative as well as be creative and enquiring. It aims to approach texts through a variety of methods which appeal to all learning styles. 

Co-Curricular Enrichment 

• Creative Writing Club 
• Author visits and workshops 
• Creative writing competitions 
• Poetry by Heart 
• Bucks Book Awards 
• Book of the Month 
• World Book Week  
• Book Club  

KS3 (Year 7 - 9) 

Students study in form groups and are taught three lessons a week. Our schemes of work follow the National Curriculum orders for Key Stage 3 including reading and responding to fictional and non-fiction texts, writing for a range of purposes, and speaking and listening in formal and informal situations. Students' learning is enriched by drama workshops, competitions and theatre visits. 

GCSE (Years 10 – 11) 

All students are entered for GCSEs in both English and English Literature.  Students are taught in mixed groups for three lessons in Year 10 and four lessons in Year 11 each week.  As in Key Stage 3, the students’ experience of English is enhanced by visits to the theatre. For more information on the GCSE course, download our GCSE Options Guide below. 

A-Level (Year 12 – 13) 

English Literature: The course develops GCSE Literature work and will appeal to all good readers and those who enjoy expressing their opinions and justifying their comments on texts. Students need to be able to analyse what they have read and to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively in writing. English Literature is a popular qualification for a wide range of courses in higher education or for future careers, including those in the cultural sector, both public and private.  

English Language This course suits those who enjoy analytical thinking, understanding the wider world, and the application of linguistic and literary frameworks. The study skills used in this subject can be applied to any professional job. 

For more information on the A-Level English Literature and English Language course grade requirements, download a copy of the Sixth Form Prospectus below.   For more information on the course content, download a copy of the A-Level Options Guide below.