SUCCESS FOR ALL

“If you know how to read, then the whole world opens up to you." 

 

Barack Obama

 

 

Curriculum Overview

The English curriculum develops pupils as confident readers, writers and speakers who can engage critically with a wide range of texts and communicate effectively in different contexts. Through the study of literature, language, poetry and non-fiction, pupils develop cultural knowledge, analytical skills and creativity. The curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and carefully sequenced to ensure strong progression from Key Stage 3 through to success at GCSE.

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Curriculum Intent

The intent of the English curriculum is to ensure that pupils:

· Develop fluency and confidence in reading, writing and spoken language.

· Engage with a rich and diverse literary canon, including texts from different times, cultures and perspectives.

· Learn to analyse language, structure and form, developing critical and evaluative skills.

· Write accurately, coherently and creatively for a range of purposes and audiences.

· Develop secure knowledge of genre, context and authorial intent.

· Build cultural capital, empathy and understanding through literature.

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The curriculum prepares pupils for success in GCSE English Language and English Literature, while equipping them with essential literacy skills for further study, employment and life.

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Curriculum Design and Sequencing

The English curriculum is carefully sequenced to build knowledge, skills and confidence over time, with clear progression in reading, writing and analysis.

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Key Stage 3 Progression

· In Year 7, pupils are introduced to literature over time, poetry, non-fiction and creative writing. Texts such as Animal Farm and My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece develop pupils’ understanding of narrative, character and theme, while building foundational analytical and writing skills.

· In Year 8, pupils study a range of canonical and modern texts, including The Tempest and Of Mice and Men. Pupils develop skills in analysing language and structure, alongside creative and non-fiction writing.

· In Year 9, pupils build independence and analytical depth through the study of texts such as Julius Caesar, Jekyll and Hyde and An Inspector Calls. Pupils also develop confident creative and transactional writing skills in preparation for GCSE.

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Key Stage 4 Progression

· In Year 10, pupils study GCSE English Literature texts, including A Christmas Carol, Blood Brothers and poetry clusters focusing on Conflict and War and Power and Identity. Pupils develop analytical essay writing and comparison skills, alongside unseen poetry and creative writing.

· In Year 11, pupils complete the GCSE English Language and Literature courses, studying Macbeth, unseen poetry and preparing for both Language papers. The curriculum focuses on refining exam technique, writing for viewpoints and perspectives, and structured revision.

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This sequencing ensures pupils move from supported skill development to confident, independent analysis and writing by the end of Key Stage 4.

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Curriculum Implementation

The English curriculum is implemented through:

· Explicit teaching of reading and writing skills, including vocabulary, grammar and structure.

· Close study of texts, supported by modelling and guided practice.

· Regular opportunities for extended writing, both analytical and creative.

· Retrieval practice to strengthen long-term knowledge retention.

· Ongoing formative assessment, including feedback, questioning and discussion.

· Summative assessments aligned with GCSE English Language and Literature requirements.

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Teaching approaches ensure high expectations, consistency and support for all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND.

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Curriculum Impact

The impact of the English curriculum is demonstrated through:

· Pupils becoming confident, articulate readers and writers.

· Secure understanding of literary texts, genres and contexts.

· Strong analytical and evaluative writing skills.

· Improved literacy across the wider curriculum.

· Successful outcomes in GCSE English Language and English Literature.

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Pupils leave the English curriculum with the skills and cultural knowledge needed to succeed in further education and participate fully in society.

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Accessibility and Inclusion

The English curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible:

· Texts and tasks are carefully scaffolded to support understanding.

· Explicit vocabulary instruction supports reading comprehension.

· Structured writing frames and modelling support written outcomes.

· A range of texts and voices ensure representation and engagement.

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Through this inclusive approach, all pupils are supported to make strong progress and achieve success in English.

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Curriculum Map