English
The team of specialist teachers are passionate about the subject. It is our aim to promote the enjoyment of reading and writing and foster what we hope will become a lifelong interest in literature, alongside equipping students with the relevant skills and knowledge about language to ensure that they make exceptional progress during their time at Weatherhead.
Why study English?
The study of English prepares students for lifelong learning. We aim to develop your child’s ability to read and write fluently, to discuss and analyse language in both literary and non-literary texts, and to become an effective user of spoken language. Furthermore, the teachers strive to increase your child’s awareness of literary heritages, not as a passive consumer but as a critical and independent reader. Your child will be encouraged to explore the relationship between language, literature, and the society and culture which produces it.
Facilities
Pupils can access an extensive range of literary and non-literary wider reading materials in the Learning Resource Centre to supplement their study of English. The English classrooms are equipped with a computer and an interactive whiteboard, and laptops are also used to develop learning in the classroom.
Support
There are a range of support sessions that run at lunchtime and after school for pupils in all of the three key stages. Additional revision classes are available for all students before they sit GCSE and Advanced Level examinations. There are also a range of homework support clubs for each key stage that are supervised by English specialists.
Extra-Curricular
Students are given the opportunity to enter local and national writing competitions and many of our students manage to get their work published each year. The Year 8 public speaking competition is the highlight of the school year. The annual Author Event takes place every Autumn Term, providing students with a chance to meet and work with famous authors. Pupils are also given the opportunity to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon and watch live theatre performances at various theatres across the North West. Students are spoilt for choice in terms of the range of extra-curricular clubs that are available:
– Harry Potter Club
– Big Read
– Homework Support
– Debate Club
– Creative Writing
– Stanza Bonanza (poetry club)
– 16 Classics Before 16
Enrichment is at the heart of the English curriculum and the department are passionate about encouraging a love for the subject.
The team of specialist teachers are passionate about the subject. It is our aim to promote the enjoyment of reading and writing and foster what we hope will become a lifelong interest in literature, alongside equipping students with the relevant skills and knowledge about language to ensure that they make exceptional progress during their time at Weatherhead.
