English
English Subject Staff
|
Miss Peet |
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Director of English Faculty |
|
Mr Newton |
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Lead Practitioner |
|
Ms O'Neill |
- |
Assistant Director of English |
|
Mrs Cross |
- |
English Key Stage Co-ordinator |
|
Ms Watts |
- |
Teacher of English |
|
Mrs Haigh |
- |
Teacher of English |
|
Dr Hinchliffe |
- |
Teacher of English |
|
Mrs Kennedy |
- |
Teacher of English |
|
Ms Peters |
- |
Teacher of English |
|
Mr Proctor |
- |
Teacher of English |
Statment of Intent
'When I read great literature, great drama, speeches, or sermons, I feel that the human mind has not achieved anything greater than the ability to share feelings and thoughts through language.'
- James Earl Jones.
At Ormskirk School, our curriculum for Secondary English is designed with a firm belief in the intrinsic value of the subject and its power to enrich students' lives. English is not just about reading and writing: it is a gateway to understanding human experiences, fostering empathy, and developing critical thinking skills that are essential for success in both academic and personal pursuits. Our curriculum is a cumulative one, that is we do the same things year on year whilst increasing the maturity and challenge of texts. We focus on big themes that are relevant to students' lives and broader societal issues such as: identity, social justice, discrimination, power and conflict, love and relationships as well as people, places in the world and history. Consequently, our curriculum exploits connections to other subjects, fostering interdisciplinary learning experiences. For example, analysing historical texts in English can complement History lessons, while in Geography, students learn about refugees which links to our text 'In the Sea there are Crocodiles' whilst our study of plays links both English and Drama epistemology.
Our curriculum aligns with the aims of the National Curriculum, ensuring that our students develop proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. We also encourage creativity, cultural appreciation, and literacy across different genres and mediums. We have carefully sequenced our curriculum to build on prior learning and generate cumulative knowledge. Starting from foundational literacy skills, we progressively introduce more complex texts and analytical techniques, fostering a deep understanding of literacy techniques and themes over time. Assessment is used strategically to support students and provide targeted feedback that enables them to progress in their learning journey. Formative assessments are integrated at key points to identify area for growth and to provide personalised support.
Our curriculum is ambitious for all students, regardless of background or ability. We celebrate diversity through our choice of texts and activities. For example, our Year 7 contemporary text 'Ghost Boys' explores racism, prejudice, injustice and privilege. Linking to our Year 9 contemporary text 'Boys Don’t Cry' which showcases the challenges a teenage black boy faces living in a predominantly white community and our third contemporary text 'Small Island' which tells of the experiences of the Windrush immigrants. Consequently, our curriculum exposes students to diverse cultural perspectives- and encourages them to be open minded citizens. By studying texts that address such issues as racism, bullying and anti-Semitic attitudes, students develop empathy, critical awareness, and the skills to challenge injustice in our society.
Reading is at the heart of our curriculum. We cultivate a love for reading by exposing students to a wide range of texts, including classic literature, contemporary fiction, poetry, short stories and non-fiction. We embed careers links within our schemes of learning, showcasing how English skills are applicable across various professions. Through activities such as debates, presentations and projects, students develop communication and analytical skills that are highly sought after in the workplace. Through our curriculum, we aim to nurture confident, articulate, and socially conscious individuals who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
English is not just a subject; it is a foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.
'Words are our most inexhaustible form of magic.'
- Albus Dumbledore (fictional headteacher and wizard)
