As a department we aim to



• promote the use of good literacy skills within the English classroom and beyond

• ensure that all students feel valued and make good progress within the subject regardless of starting point and background

• nurture pupil self-confidence in reading, writing and speaking and listening skills

• promote student involvement in a wide range of extra-curricular activities

• stimulate pupils’ critical awareness

• encourage creativity

• provide a curriculum that stimulates student enjoyment and enquiry

 

English Bill of Rights

 

To arrive with an open, enquiring mind to all English lessons – you are the driving force

To come prepared to share your ideas, whatever the topic – your opinion matters

To take part in group and class discussions showing sensitivity and thought when listening to the views of others – respect and learn from your peers

To think about how best to communicate your ideas in writing by planning them out first – structure and organise your ideas for maximum impact

To be unafraid to speak your mind in the safe, secure environment of the classroom – entrust your peers and the teacher with your ideas

To ask questions of yourself and your own understanding before asking the teacher – lead, don’t follow

To never the leave an English lesson without having learned something – take control of your own learning to make better progress in reading and writing

To embrace and challenge new ideas and ways of working – don’t be afraid to stray outside your comfort zone sometimes

To draw on skills learned across the curriculum to succeed in English – write like a reader, read like a writer

To immerse yourself in a book during quiet reading in English lessons – develop and grow as a well-rounded learner by reading for pleasure To impress and reward yourself before anyone, including your teacher – it’s your education, your future so take personal pride in your achievements in English

To see English as a window on the world full of light and shadows – knowledge is power, so use it