

English
Aims
The English Programmes of Study are delivered by a dedicated team of experienced subject specialists with a proven track record in preparing pupils of all abilities for a range of public examinations including GCSE English Language and Literature.
Staff
Mrs C Gwynne - B.A.(Hons)., P.G.C.E /Head of Department /Subject Teacher
Mrs CL Patton - B.A.(Hons)., P.G.C.E /Assistant Head of Senco /Subject Teacher
Mrs C Johnston – B.A(Hons)., P.G.C.E, M.Ed /Subject Teacher
Mrs L Bradley – B.A.(Hons.), P.G.C.E. / Subject Teacher
Ms C Galwey - B.A.(Hons) MSc., P.G.C.E / Subject Teacher
Mrs E MacCombe – M.A.Ed., B.Ed. / Subject
Teacher
In English, we seek to foster an appreciation of a varied range of literature; to encourage pupils to become independent readers; to develop a range of writing skills for different purposes and to promote creativity. Pupils are offered a variety of educational opportunities both within and beyond the classroom including drama workshops, theatre visits, media simulations, competition work, public speaking and debating.
English classes are set. This arrangement allows for the provision of smaller teaching groups for those pupils who require additional support. In addition, setting allows us to promote high achievers at any time throughout the academic year and to ensure that all pupils are working at a pace suitable to their needs.
All in the English Department work tirelessly to ensure that each pupil reaches their full potential. Exam results at both Key Stage 3 and Key stage 4 are excellent and well in excess of the Northern Ireland average for schools of this type.
Our most recent inspection report praised the work of the department commenting on the good quality of teaching. Lessons were described as imaginative and pupils were engaged in stimulating and challenging activities.
KS4/KS5 Options
Please watch the videos below to find out what GCSE Journalism and GCE English Literature entails.
Course
Content
Assessment
GCSE English Language
Studied in conjunction with English Literature (2 GCSEs) Allows pupils to demonstrate their ability to use English in real life contexts using a skills based approach.
60% Controlled Assessment Coursework
40% Exam
GCSE English Literature
Studied in conjunction with English Language. (2 GCSEs) Requires candidates to explore texts from a personal perspective and offers an experience of:
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Literature Today
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Literature Globally
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The Literary Heritage
25% Controlled Assessment Coursework
75% Exam
Entry Level Certificate in Communication
Reading, Writing and Talking and Listening through the study of Prose, Poetry, Drama and Media texts
80% Controlled Assessment Coursework
20% Exam
Key Skills Communication Levels 1 and 2
Develops Communication Skills enabling increasing independence and clarity. Promotes talking and listening and develops understanding and knowledge of reading.
50% Controlled Assessment Coursework
50% Exam
Pre-Vocational Certificate in Oral Communication
This qualification provides a broad-based context for the practice and assessment of oral communication, focussing on the development and demonstration of transferable skills in preparation for vocational
training and employment.
100% Exam
A Level English Literature
AS1: the Study of Drama
AS2: the Study of Poetry written after 1800 and the Study of Prose – 1800 – 1945
40% AS
20% A Level Controlled Assessment Coursework
60% AS Exam
30% A Level
A21: the Study of Poetry – 1300 – 1800 and DramaA22: the Study of Prose – theme bases.
50% A2
25% A Level Controlled Assessment Coursework
Skills developed through the study of English
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Effective Communication
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Team Work
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Time Management
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Reading Skills
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Writing Skills
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Understanding and Evaluation
Careers linked with English
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The study of English is essential for all careers