English

English is a dynamic subject which develops the skills to communicate with confidence and offers enjoyment at all levels.  In all English classes there is strong emphasis on active pupil participation, the practical application of language and the understanding of all types of literature. Group work is very popular and oral activities including discussion, role-play and presentation form a significant part of our activities. Each girl is encouraged both to express their creativity and fulfil their academic potential. Above all we hope to promote enjoyment of literature and a sense of the range of its possibilities.

Our girls consistently achieve excellent examination results at both GCSE and A Level.
100% of girls achieved grades A* - C for their GCSE in English (2010)
61% of girls achieved a grade A* or A

100% achieved grades A* - E in A Level Language (2010)
Cambridge Pre-U Literature – 43% Distinctions (including one D1 which is higher than A* grade for A Level)

At Key Stage 3, we study a range of texts from the English Literary Heritage to contemporary classics.  All pupils get the chance to study Shakespeare, a classic novel and a wide range of poetry as well as modern novels and play scripts. We encourage the writing of stories, plays, poems and other media to suit a range of different purposes and contexts.  We offer a range of extra-curricular clubs from creative writing to reading groups and celebrate National Poetry Day and World Book Day. 

In 2011 we enjoyed taking part in the Times Spelling Bee competition, BBC Radio 2’s 500 word competition and shadowing the Carnegie Children’s Book Award.  Regular theatre trips across the year groups, enhances our delivery of English.