The English department inspires originality and encourages students to develop sophisticated methods of communication and self-expression. Through the study of a diverse range of fiction, poetry, plays, and non-fiction, students enhance their reading, writing, and communication skills. The English department strives to expand our students’ creative and analytical qualities; equipping every student with the necessary skills to achieve their full potential in English. Our department aims to teach students to understand that all forms of literature and communication have a place in a modern and historical context.

 

English Big Ideas

The Bonus Pastor English department understands the importance of language. Our lessons are planned so that pupils appreciate that language is pivotal to progressing in our subject. We teach the pupils to value the way language shapes cultures and identity. We explore the significant concept of the way that throughout history, language has been used positively and negatively. Our ‘Big Ideas’ consider the way the language can be used to express internal experiences and we try to help pupils develop an understanding of how people think, feel, and behave in historical and modern times. We focus on the need to understand how studying literature can help the pupils understand the world they live in. We aim to equip our pupils with the skills to use language to express themselves creatively.  We focus on the way using language effectively can help our pupils in their future.

Key Stage 3 English

English Lessons are compulsory in Key Stage 3 and students receive 8 periods over a two-week timetable. The English department follows a comprehensive curriculum map which aims to expose students to a diverse range of texts. In Years 7 and 8 English students study novels, short stories, poetry and plays in addition to non-fiction texts. Writers include William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and other pre-20th-century writers from the English Literary Heritage. Students are taught to write in a range of styles for different audiences and purposes. We encourage students to become self-confident, fluent speakers and good listeners. Our Key Stage 3 curriculum is designed to form a strong foundation for the GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language examinations.

KS3 English Overview

Key Stage 4 English

All students study English Literature and English Language and students are normally entered for both GCSE English and GCSE English Literature. Attainment is high at both GCSEs and students are set challenging targets. Students complete a 2 Year course to prepare them for successful GCSE entry.

For more details on the GCSE Courses please see the GCSE subpage. 

GCSE English Overview

Resources

Year 11s also have access to our English Department website which is full of exam hints/tips and guides. 

English Revision Site

Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities

The department runs a number of theatre trips for KS3 and KS4 groups, depending upon the texts being studied.

• We work closely with the Library and help to organise events such as World Book Day, Book Day Quizzes and Reading Challenges.
• Students in Debate Club can enter debating workshops and participate in regional competitions.
• We participate in virtual author events and welcome outside speakers in to school to inspire the students.
• There are opportunities for students to join reading groups and creative writing clubs as well as enter writing competitions.
• The department runs Year 11 intervention sessions after school each week.

View extracurricular Activitesactivites in English

For more information please email the Head of Department

Mr W Fali - wfali@bonuspastor.co.uk