English

Subject Intent

At Derby Cathedral School we aim to provide a high quality English education that teaches pupils to read and write confidently, speak fluently and listen attentively, so that they can communicate their ideas and emotions. The study of English allows the acquisition and communication of knowledge, across all subjects, preparing our students for the world of work and further education later in life.

The KS3 and KS4 curriculum at Derby Cathedral School is designed to build upon the main strands of the KS2 curriculum: Reading, Writing, Spoken Language and SPAG (Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar), providing the opportunity for pupils to develop their skills and knowledge.

Derby Cathedral School takes pride in the standard of communication fostered, and its role in helping our pupils demonstrate great Fellowship across the school.

Reading is at the heart of everything we do in English. In English lessons, students have the chance to study a range of texts from around the world and from different points in history to help them gain a full and detailed appreciation of how important literature is in helping us understand the world around us.

Pupils will be challenged at KS3, reading increasingly challenging material such as: Shakespeare, poetry, prose and drama. They will be encouraged to read critically and develop their love for literature.

Our pupils will also develop their written expression, learning to write for a wide range of purposes, such as; scripts, poetry, stories and other creative outlets. Planning and drafting, accuracy and fluency will be at the forefront of their education, to allow them to become independent learners with excellent communication skills and great Tenacity. Mastering English grammar, and developing new vocabulary will be taught alongside speaking confidently and effectively to range of audiences and for a range of purposes, ensuring our students move to the next stage of their learning journey with the necessary skills to succeed.

We will study English Language and Literature at GCSE using a range of genres and texts, such as, tragedy, crime fiction, modern plays and more traditional literary texts to both enliven the English Language and inspire our pupils in their own work. Pupils will create their own texts, ranging from short stories to more formal discussions, allowing them to reflect on their lives and education at Derby Cathedral School and build Aspirations for the rest of their lives.

Our curriculum is designed so that pupil knowledge of key authors, genres and time periods will allow them to widen their appreciation of Literature and provide the opportunity for more in-depth study as they journey through their GCSEs. The sense of Humility gained from studying the wealth of knowledge available from our literary heritage is key in our pupils’ quest for self- improvement.

Our curriculum also provides and encourages our pupils to interrogate the texts we cover. English provides an excellent opportunity for our pupils at Derby Cathedral School to reflect on the spiritual and moral questions raised by great writers such as Shakespeare and Dickens. To use their speaking and writing skills to communicate their own developing opinions on spirituality and religion. They will develop their understanding of Integrity by studying the fairness and equality of others.

English Long Term Plan