Purpose

The Key Stage 3 English curriculum aims to foster a love of reading through exciting texts (including poetry, prose, drama and media) that also allow students to practise the writing skills required for GCSE English Language and Literature, and to encourage empathy and open students' eyes to range of cultures and backgrounds. We also develop students' oracy skills through presentations, classroom discussions and peer assessment. Feedback is designed to help students identify areas of improvement (such as spelling and grammar, critical thinking, essay structure etc) and to gain greater confidence in expressing their ideas though the written word.

Content

In Year 7, we provide students with a strong foundation of key knowledge to support their study of English. Through art and poetry, students explore layers of meaning, critically analysing and reflecting on complex ideas. In examining women in folklore over time, students are encouraged to make comparisons between texts and representations.

Students will later develop their skills in empathy writing, inspired by powerful novels, to help them to develop emotional intelligence and connect literature to human experiences and engage with real-world issues like environmental challenges and conflict, fostering critical and responsible thinking.

Our oracy work emphasises effective communication; students will engage in presentations and speeches to build their confidence and understanding. Creative writing remains central to the curriculum, with opportunities in and beyond the classroom to inspire imagination, self-expression, and individual voice.

Beyond the classroom

Creative Writing Club, KS3 Reading Group, Bookmarked by JCG, Author visits