English
The English department at BST covers three main areas of learning:
Language, Literature and Media. At both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4,
pupils study a range of literature texts, from Shakespearean plays to
Victorian short stories, modern fiction novels to haiku. We also
examine aspects of media, both print and moving image, as well as, of
course, helping pupils to become confident and skilful writers across
a range of genres. Speaking and Listening skills are developed
throughout the entire five year syllabus whilst lessons are tailored
to pupils’ needs and use a variety of techniques to bring English
alive. We encourage all pupils to become confident users of English in
all situations, and to leave BST with a true appreciation of our
literary heritage.
At Key Stage Three every year group studies a different topic each
half term. Key Stage Three classes cover: novels; plays; some poetry;
a media unit, and a range of different writing styles that incorporate
knowledge about language. All of the skills learnt in these units are
the foundations that we lay in preparation for the GCSEs. In
particular Year 9 focuses on preparation for GCSE style learning. We
assess learners with the Assessing Pupils’ Progress scheme, which is
in line with best practice in England.
At Key Stage Four, pupils in year 11 study a combination of GCSE
English Language and GCSE English Literature, or GCSE English Language
and GCSE Media. Both courses require a considerable amount of
coursework to be completed, as well as final examinations.
Year 10 are embarking on the new specification at GCSE and will study
both language and literature. The main difference in this course is
that units will be assessed through controlled assessment and through
an exam in the summer.
We are also proud to work closely alongside Richie Steven, the school
librarian, in order to encourage and boost all pupils’ enjoyment of
reading. Each class, whether it is Key Stage 3, 4 or 5, has a
timetabled fortnightly session in the library.
We strongly recommend that all pupils should be undertaking to read at
least 30 minutes a night. This will have a significant impact on their
progress.