Curriculum

English

The aim of the English department is to foster a life-long love of words, language, and the power of literature and stories. Through a magical ring of deconstructing the work of others, and constructing their own, the pupils develop the ability to communicate feelings, ideas and information to a variety of different audiences in creative ways. Using texts from myriad countries, cultures, points in time, and perspectives, we aim to provide the children with a huge wealth of contextual knowledge from which to draw upon in school and beyond. Combined with a rigorous approach to the teaching of skills, this provides the basis for the English journey of the children through the school.

 

Preparation for the ever-changing and demanding 11+ and 13+ pre-tests receives increased precedence in Year 5. We believe exam success is a by-product of excellent teaching, but we recognise that by starting the process in Year 5, it allows pupils to become familiar with the expectations and allows a seamless transition. Pupils follow the Common Entrance Syllabus in Years 7 and 8, but this is open to interpretation and allows us to continue our ethos forward into the Upper School.