English

The English Department is currently made up of ten full-time members of staff with a wide range of expertise, as well as shared enthusiasm for English.  Students studying English benefit from the knowledge and passion that their teachers have for literature and enjoy a varied curriculum.

At Key Stage 3 students develop skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening through a carefully developed curriculum.  Students study all aspects of the English curriculum through engaging projects ranging from creating storybooks to producing advertising campaigns.  Reading is also an integral part of the curriculum and at Key Stage 3 students explore texts including Holes, Boy, The Tempest and Macbeth. 

Extra curricular activities include visits from poets and authors, the school newspaper (UHS Express) and theatre trips.

At Key Stage 4 students study AQA English and English Literature.  The curriculum is designed to engage and challenge all students.  Students study texts including Romeo and Juliet and Of Mice and Men as well as analysing spoken language and writing original pieces.  The English department support students in achieving success at GCSE through weekly booster classes, theatre trips and a revision residential.

A Level English Literature is a popular option at post-16.  At AS Level students study a range of texts exploring ‘The Struggle for Modern Identity’ and at A2 students complete coursework and an exam on the topic ‘Love through the Ages’.  Throughout the two year course, students are encouraged to read widely and many students go on to study English at university level.