ENGLISH

Students are set by ability, within two broad bands, based on their KS2 Levels in the core subjects.  Sets are reviewed, as students' progress is assessed, each half term.

Study Schedules (Schemes of Work) are organised within year groups 7 - 9, to ensure that the full range of skills is covered - creative and transactional writing, reading of poetry, drama, prose (pre- and post - 1914 texts) and non-fiction, speaking and listening, By Y9, most students have progressed to studying units relevant to GCSE English.

Year 11 Students in the Academy currently follow the EDEXCEL exam board for GCSE.

Students are set by ability in two broad ability bands.  The course is modular, containing controlled assessments and examination, taken at different stages throughout the course.

Our post - 16 English provision is in the early stages of development since its inception in 2008.  We currently offer AS Level courses in English Language and English Literature, with some students progressing to A2 (the full "A" Level) in these subjects.

Students are given excellent opportunities to develop their skills to meet the demands of advanced level study; the teachers of AS and A2 are fully committed and highly enthusiastic.  They have a range of experience and expertise, from entry level teachers, to staff with over thirty years' service.  Other colleagues are also keen to take on A Level teaching, so the longer term prospects for this area look good.

The department has close links with the Academy's Learning Resource Centre; the facility offers our students excellent opportunities for developing their skills in reading, ICT, and independent learning.

In recent years, we have forged strong links with the BBC, under the leadership of Ms Bishton and Mrs Westland; our students have had the opportunity to work closely with media professionals from radio and television, and some of them have been involved in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event.

Surveys of our students and their parents have consistently shown that they have a high regard for the standards of English teaching in the Academy.

2009 GCSE Results - English - 30% attained A* - C      English Literature - 43% attained A* - C

2010 GCSE Results - English - 47% attained A* - C      English Literature - 37% attained A* - C

The Academy's first set of A2 Results were published in August 2010 - the pass rate was 100%, including A Level English Literature.