Senior School Curriculum - English

English is a popular subject at Peterborough High.  All pupils take English and English Literature to GCSE level and many more go on to study English Literature in the sixth form.  We aim to build a love of the subject, enabling students to become increasingly perceptive readers and proficient users of English.

In Years 7 to 9,  we build upon English work done in the previous Key Stages, revising and consolidating existing skills and developing new skills in the key areas of  Reading, Writing and Speaking and Listening.  We do not sit the Key Stage 3 tests but we do follow the National Curriculum for the Teaching of English and our scheme of work is closely linked with the recommendations of the National Literacy Strategy, with an additional focus on extended reading and creative writing activities.

Preparation for GCSE begins in the final term of Year 9.  During the GCSE courses, students develop further confidence and accuracy in the key literacy skills.  Classes study poetry, prose and drama at GCSE as well as a range of non-fiction and media texts.  The ability to communicate is an essential tool and we ensure that girls are literate in every sense.

Throughout the English curriculum, the Library provides opportunities for students to research authors and texts.  Reading lists are issued to support studies at examination level as we feel it is particularly important for our older students to develop skills as independent learners.

In addition to its curricular work, the English Department produces an annual play, actively  involving students in all stages of the production;  provides regular visits to theatres, cinemas and lectures and involves senior girls in writing for, editing and producing the Peterborough High School Magazine.

Reading for pleasure is actively encouraged and supported by the Senior School Library  with an exciting range of contemporary fiction available for students to borrow.  Readers are encouraged to share reviews and recommendations, while in the summer term, a group of keen readers meet to read, discuss and vote on the novels short-listed for the Carnegie Prize for Literature.  World Book Day is celebrated in conjunction with the Library as students are involved in a range of reading and writing activities, competitions and performances.

If you like to read, write, act and be part of a creative team, this is the place to be!