English

Our English curriculum focuses on developing excellent communication skills and fostering a love for the subject in all of our students. Reading is central to our mission. Those who read for pleasure are more likely to have success in their lives- both personal and academic- which is why we explore a wonderful range of texts that have been chosen to engage students as well as provide them with a rich cultural capital. From Dickens to Duffy, we aim to create a tapestry of books, poems and plays that will resonate with the students- not only now but also within their future experiences.

Fundamentally, we aim to encourage independent, critical thinkers with an appreciation of diverse perspectives. We also value and foster the English skills that feature in the world around us such as creativity, imagination and analysis. English is actively linked to the world of employment- whether that be to careers within the Media, Teaching, Publishing and Law- or in how we encourage our students to communicate clearly and with confidence, optimising their chances to shine in the future.

We work hard to ensure that students experience a range of teaching and learning styles that will appeal to all different kinds of learners: discussion and debate underpins much of what we do. We actively embrace the pedagogy of Philosophy for Children which encourages thoughtful discussion, respect, and effective communication.

Regular assessments help teachers to evaluate the progress of students.

The English curriculum provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience, equipping students with essential communication skills and a lifelong passion for the subject. We pride ourselves on helping students to find their voice and recognise themselves in the words of others.

- Mrs Z Ellis, Head of English

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 3 (KS3) highlights: 

The KS3 English curriculum at St. Augustine’s is inspiring, broad and creative. Taking a thematic approach, with a ‘golden thread’ running through each year, KS3 texts have been chosen carefully to allow for critical thinking and richness of study; to encourage an exploration of empathy, morality, and social justice; and to provide strong foundations for the transition to KS4. Students can look forward to studying a wide variety of literature, including the work of Charles Dickens; famous dystopian texts, such as George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ and Golding’s ‘Lord of the Flies’; modern texts, including ‘Face’ by Benjamin Zephaniah, and a selection of Marvel origin stories; and the study of a different Shakespeare play each year. Across KS3, students are also introduced to key literary and historical contexts, such as the Romantic era, Victorian gothic fiction and World War One poetry.

Students enjoy visits to the college library, which take place fortnightly during English lessons. During these sessions, students are encouraged to read for pleasure, complete reading challenges, and engage in activities, for example, celebrating World Book Week and National Poetry Day. 

High standards in literacy are promoted, with an emphasis on spelling, grammar and punctuation, as well as ambitious vocabulary development. 

Each term students will complete a formative and summative assessment, alongside termly ‘SPaG’ checks. A balance of reading, creative and non-fiction writing, and speaking and listening tasks are completed over the year.

Year 7: Narrative

Term 1 – Childhood and Growing Up (transition unit including autobiographical writing)

Term 2 – Growing Up and Transformation in the World of Charles Dickens

Term 3 – Beauty, Beasts and Creation (poetry and literary non-fiction celebrating the natural world)

Term 4 – Telling Tales (exploration of character archetypes, representation and narrative arcs)

Term 5 – The Allegorical Novel: Animal Farm by George Orwell

Term 6 – Storytelling and Shakespeare

Year 8: Identity

Term 1 –Myths and Monsters

Term 2 – Fear and Fascination - ‘Outsiders’ in society

Term 3 – Poetry of the Romantic era

Term 4 – Shakespeare’s The Tempest

Terms 5 and 6 – Face by Benjamin Zephaniah

Year 9: Power and People

Term 1 – Modern fiction: Lord of the Flies or The Woman in Black

Term 2 – Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet

Term 3 –People and Travel (non-fiction reading and writing to present a viewpoint)

Term 4 – Poetry of War

Term 5 – Crossing Worlds (creative writing)

Term 6 – An Inspector Calls (English Literature GCSE ‘modern drama’ set text)

GCSE English Literature

In Year 9, students begin to focus on the GCSE syllabus and their GCSE Literature texts. Years 10 and 11 allow them to refine their skills for optimal outcomes. Our ambitious curriculum also prepares students for further study at Key Stage 5 (KS5). 

A Levels

KS5 offers English Literature and English Language and Literature courses. We teach a diverse range of texts and emphasize essay writing, independent study, and opportunities for enrichment through academic lectures and trips. Students completing the course will be well-prepared for the first year of their degree. 

A Level English Language and Literature

A Level English Literature

Curriculum delivery

KS3            6 hours per fortnight

GCSE        8 hours per fortnight

A Level     9 hours per fortnight