English
BackWelcome to the English Department
Our Department Vision
At Copthall, students are encouraged to become confident readers, writers and speakers through their study of English and Literature.
The aim of the English curriculum is to develop our students as critical thinkers and effective communicators. We wish to instil intellectual curiosity and a love of Literature in all students; therefore, our curriculum incorporates texts from different times, places and voices. We recognise the functional importance of English in accessing all other subjects and in preparing our students for their futures in both education and the world of work. However, we also know that the study of English is so much more than this. At its core it is about understanding the human condition: the aspects of behaviour, feeling and morality that transcend time periods and cultures. Our curriculum content is designed to this end and we believe it develops essential values such as tolerance, respect and empathy.
There are three strands which underpin the English curriculum:
1. Heritage and Context
2. Genre and Form
3. Voice
In each year, topics from across these strands are taught. They connect together to build a model of progression from KS3 to KS5.
We place a high value on reading, as we recognise the impact that it can have on educational outcomes and individual wellbeing. Quality literature is integral to our curriculum, and where possible, we use it to teach essential English Language skills. In Years 7-9 our students have fortnightly library lessons, where they read books independently, as well as together with their teacher and peers.
A concerted effort has been made to incorporate texts by women writers or with central female characters, particularly within the limitations of examination content at KS4 and KS5. We wish to amplify and celebrate female voices in order to inspire the girls we teach. We also incorporate texts from other cultures to reflect the diverse population of our school.
The Curriculum Leader may be contacted via email enquiries@copthall.barnet.sch.uk.
Curriculum
Document Downloads
English Language KS4 Curriculum Map
English Literature KS4 Curriculum Map
Click here for Sixth Form Subjects
Extra-Curricular Activities
We believe it is important to provide our students with cultural experiences that will enrich their study of English Language and Literature. In the recent past, we have taken groups of students to Shakespeare’s Globe and the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre to see various performances. We have organised in-school visits from theatre companies, and have taken our students to lecture days to enhance their contextual knowledge of GCSE and A Level texts.
We work closely with our school librarian to encourage reading for pleasure, and use Book Buzz and the Accelerated Reader programme to support with this.
Careers & Employment
The ability to communication clearly is an essential skill for all career pathways and higher education courses.
There are many careers and higher education courses that would be suited to a student with qualifications in English Language and Literature, such as broadcasting, journalism, publishing, law, teaching, lecturing, public relations, social media management, writing and lexicography.
Recommended Reading
The lists below offer suggestions for wider reading to complement the study of English Literature at each Key Stage.
Key Stage 3 - Reading for Pleasure
