English Teachers

Vision of Subject

Communication is crucial in our fast-paced global society and, at Kirkby High School, we aim to equip our students with the skills to be able to effectively and concisely express themselves in a wide range of situations. In English, students will explore a breadth of written, spoken and reading skills through immersion in a wide range of challenging texts that will foster their inherent curiosity. English at Kirkby High School will ensure that all students become purposeful and successful members of society.

Statement of Intent

In English at Kirkby High School, we aim to foster a love of reading and writing. Through immersion in a wide range of quality fiction and non-fiction texts, we want our students to develop new ways of searching for meaning and expressing themselves. Through reading, students can make sense of the world around them and they can express this understanding through effective use of language in writing and thoughtful discussion. During their study of English, we want our students to be able to access the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the in the world of education and employment. In order to do this effectively, we create a culture of collaboration and trust between staff and students which is closely aligned with the core values of Kirkby High School. Generating the best teaching and learning opportunities to inspire and enthuse learners is at the heart of what we do.

KS3

Throughout their time at Kirkby High School, students are taught English in ability groups. Teaching focuses on developing the key skills of reading, writing and speaking and listening.

In Key Stage 3 (Year 7-9), students have 4 hours per week of English and 30 minute homework tasks are set weekly. Homework consists of written tasks, reading, research, and revision.

Work is assessed every two weeks with students receiving WWW (what went well)/ EBI (even better if) feedback which is linked to a MAD (make a difference) task. Formal assessments are completed every half term to track and monitor the progress of students. Feedback is provided to students in terms of the skills they are working towards or have mastered.

KS4

Students in Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) are working towards two GCSE qualifications: English language and English literature. They follow the EDUQAS exam board.

The specification code for English language is 601/4505/5

The specification code for English literature is 601/5246/1

At Key Stage 4, students have 5 lessons each week.  Weekly, 60 minute homework tasks are set and consist of written tasks, reading, research, and revision. Assessments to track progress are set regularly throughout each half term. Students are expected to complete independent revision alongside set homework.

Throughout their time at Kirkby High School, students are taught the following key skills:

Reading

Identify and interpret explicit and implicit information and ideas. Select and synthesise evidence from different texts.

Explain, comment on analyse how writers use language and structure to achieve effects and influence readers, using relevant subject terminology to support their views.

Compare writers’ ideas and perspectives, as well as how these are conveyed, across two or more texts.

Read and understand a range of texts to: Evaluate texts critically and support this with appropriate textual references.

Writing

Communicate clearly, effectively, and imaginatively, selecting and adapting tone, style and register for different forms, purposes and audiences. Organise information and ideas, using structural and grammatical features to support coherence and cohesion of texts.

Candidates must use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and effect, with accurate spelling and punctuation. (This requirement must constitute 20% of the marks for each specification as a whole).

Spoken Language

Demonstrate presentation skills in a formal setting

Listen and respond appropriately to spoken language, including to questions and feedback to presentations

Use spoken Standard English effectively in speeches and presentations

Additional Information

Include details of any extra-curricular activities including:

Interventions – lesson withdrawal

Revision sessions – after school

Homework support – lunch and after school

Trips – theatre/ cinema

Reading Zone – quiet reading time after school and at lunchtimes