English is a seminal language at the heart of global society and culture. It has had a decisive impact in shaping the world we live in today.
"And speak to people good words"
The Noble Qur’an [2: 83-89]
The department therefore endeavours to develop in its students the skills of critical appreciation, analysis and evaluation, with a view achieving GCSE success at a high level. In a wider sense, the qualities our students will form in terms of written and oral expression will lay the foundation for a prosperous future, whether this is in higher education, their chosen profession or their role in the community in general. Students will be encouraged to read with a critical eye and asks questions that will feed their intellectual curiosity. This includes the diverse viewpoints of those writing about Islam and its traditions through the medium of the English language.
In 2024, 100% of students achieved between grades 9-5 in English language and 95% achieved between 9-5 in English literature. You can see our school performance figures for 2024 GCSE exams here.
A solid foundation is laid in Years 7 and 8 with students introduced to prose, poetry and drama in both pre-1914 and post-1914 texts.
Authors studied include Charles Dickens, Mary Shelly, Charlotte Bronte and George Orwell. Key skills of analysis are established throughout these years, with a developed focus on creative, argumentative and persuasive writing. As a part of nurturing the understanding of classical forms and contexts, a full Shakespeare play is studied every year, with Julius Caesar in Year 7 and The Tempest in Year 8 respectively. Genres studied include Victorian Gothic Literature and World War I poetry.
Students study for two separate GCSEs in English Language and English Literature. We follow the Edexcel GCSE specification for both of these developing knowledge and skills in reading, writing, critical thinking and speaking.
English Language develops articulate, knowledgeable young people who can express viewpoints confidently and concisely. Indeed, students develop a profound appreciation of the written and spoken word and become equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to express themselves with confidence, both in and outside of the classroom. We aim to develop our students’ abilities to read a wide range of texts fluently and with critical understanding that in turn will improve their own writing.
Students will sit two exam papers:
English Literature develops students who can confidently engage with, and independently interpret, a range of literature texts. English Literature aims to nurture and develop a love of literature, language and words, taking into account the needs and styles of all students so that everyone experiences success. Students gain an understanding of a range of different social and historical contexts and make links between literature texts and topical modern issues. Our KS4 syllabus focuses on developing our students’ ability to read a wide range of classic literature fluently to develop critical understanding and make connections across their reading.
Students will sit two exam papers:
