English (Senior - Academic Curriculum)

Language

English at St Benedict’s is about each individual student becoming empowered in their use and interpretation of language. Language is the most powerful tool known to man and we need to be able to use it effectively, for different audiences, different purposes and in different styles. We also need to be able to identify how others try to influence and manipulate us through their use of language. We want our students to enjoy their own writing and to be discerning, analytical readers.

English lessons are full of opportunities to develop these skills. Lessons are diverse, engaging, exploratory and fun. We use a mix of reading, writing, speaking and listening in order to empower students with the linguistic freedom and control they need. We also seek to foster in students an awareness of their role in society and how they can use their skills for the benefit of others.

Literature

At St. Benedict’s we aim to develop a love of reading in our students. We read books as a class and we also give the students time to develop their own individual reading tastes, sharing their discoveries with each other. As well as working on novels, we also read a wide range of poetry and drama, and encourage students to practise writing their own texts. There are also co-curricular opportunities for students to improve their own reading and writing skills.

Literature work is integrated with English work in the first three years of the senior school. There is a separate GCSE in English Literature and English Literature A Level is extremely popular amongst students. We take students on a range of different trips, for example to the theatre and to the National Gallery, in order to give them a rich experience of literature and the arts.