Norbury Manor Girls' High School

Aims
Students who study English at NMBEC are encouraged to develop a love of literature and are given the opportunity to develop their reading, writing and speaking and listening skills to the best of their abilities.

All students are encouraged to be individual thinkers and independent learners. A good command of the English language and an understanding of the complexities of language are essential for students’ academic and developmental success. We aim to provide students with the skills to succeed from Key Stage 3 through to A level.

Organisation of students
The department teaches all students in form groups when they arrive in Year 7. From half term they are then set according to their academic ability and are then taught in sets until Year 11. A Level students are taught in mixed ability classes.

The main advantage of this system is that teachers can focus more closely on their students’ individual needs and support teachers can be allocated to individual sets. Teachers can also choose work more suited to particular groups of students’ abilities whether this means teaching a more challenging text or focussing on literacy skills.

Sets are reassessed throughout the year and students can be moved whenever necessary if they are consistently working above or below their level or grade.

The Curriculum
The study of English in every year group covers the importance of reading, writing and speaking and listening skills.

In Key Stage 3 students study a range of texts. These include poetry, a novel, a modern play, media analysis and a Shakespeare play. Students are also taught one literacy lesson a week and are also expected to learn spellings from a set list.

In Years 10 and 11 all students are prepared for GCSEs in English Language and Literature. They complete a coursework folder, carry out speaking and listening assessments and read and analyse novels, media texts, plays and poetry.

The English department also offer very successful courses in English Literature and Media Studies at A level.

Students are equipped with the skills to be confident, articulate speakers and fluent writers. We encourage them to be enthusiastic readers, capable of critical opinions. We aim to foster independent learners who are able to form and express their own judgements.

The School Magazine
‘Outspoken’ is an opportunity for students to be enterprising and get involved in the exciting and innovative school magazine through design, reporting, writing, sales or marketing. Students can take on responsibility, lead a team, learn how to motivate others, gain experience for the working world or simply explore their creative talents.

Clubs and Societies
The department runs a number of clubs ranging from homework and catch-up clubs to media, debating, film and book clubs. We run competitions for the students to enter and encourage them to take part in trips and events, such as Readathon, every year.

Facilities
The English department is equipped with Interactive whiteboards and up to date ICT and media facilities.