English Language and Literature

AIMS 

The overarching aim of the English curriculum is to provide all pupils with the means to communicate effectively through the written and spoken word. Our united mission is to embed challenge, but equally to engage and foster creativity and enjoyment of English. We introduce pupils to the rich and varied literary heritage and aim to make links with contemporary fiction and non-fiction. The enjoyment of reading is central to all that we do as we strive to develop confidence and curiosity as well as a love of literature and language. 

CURRICULUM 

Lower School 

In Years 7 and 8, pupils study a range of texts to introduce pupils to the English literary canon, and take them on a chronological journey through seminal literacy classics. The curriculum offer is sequential and revisits major key themes throughout, alongside an equitable split of text type and Literature and Language coverage. Pupils visit the library once per fortnight, have a reading for pleasure book with them for all lessons and access Bedrock Learning to support their lexical and syntactical development.  

Upper School 

In Years 9-11, pupils study both GCSE English Literature and English Language, following the AQA specification. The curriculum offer is sequential and builds complexity of textual coverage from year-to-year. All pupils study: Blood Brothers, Romeo and Juliet, A Christmas Carol, Unseen Poetry and the AQA Conflict and Power Poetry Anthology. Alongside this, pupils have an equitable balance of Language and Literature coverage, ensuring they are fully prepared to achieve optimum outcomes at the end of Year 11.  

FACILITIES AND RESOURCES 

The English Department is based in Queen’s Wing close to the well-stocked library and a full-time librarian. Our classrooms are spacious, inviting and colourful which reflects how proud we are of our thriving department. There are currently seven experienced English teachers who bring a wide range of expertise but who also specialise in drama, creative writing and debate. English Intervention Clinics are available for pupils and students of on Monday after school and Wednesday lunch times.  

TRIPS AND VISITS 

The English Department has been involved in several trips and visits and regularly contribute to the collegiate spirit of QEGs by taking pupils and students to see a wide range of theatre each academic year.   

EXTRA CURRICULAR 

  • Biannual musical production  
  • Drama club 
  • Newspaper publishing group for ‘The Garstang’  
  • Rach for the Stars  

For more information please contact: 

Mr M Hewitt 

Head of English