Contact
Head of Department: Miss N Dean
n.dean@kingsway.stockport.sch.uk
English Curriculum Intent
At TKS, we believe the study of English is vital in allowing students to use writing and texts as a stimulus to question and explore big ideas and societal issues in the world around them. The foundations of English are built on a fundamental understanding that all texts our students read or write have a wider message and that these messages are universal.
The English curriculum is designed with a thematic approach and each year group uses their study of texts and writing – linked conceptually – to answer a big philosophical question. Our curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge, allowing for continuous revisiting of foundational knowledge in each year. The core knowledge that learners are expected to acquire in our curriculum journey is a deep understanding of: literary plot devices, characterisation, allegory, symbolism, motifs, genre conventions and writing devices for different audiences and purposes. Learners are then expected to apply this knowledge by analysing writer’s choices, developing their critical appreciation of contexts and writers’ messages and producing a variety of original fiction and non-fiction pieces.
The high-quality academic texts we choose mirror the diversity of our school community and create aspiration as across Key Stage 3 and 4, our students encounter a full breadth of literary forms through studying: plays; novels; Shakespeare texts; genres; styles of writing; poetry anthologies and a range of non-fiction texts. Our learners are given opportunities for rich discussion around concepts such as history, inclusivity, diversity, identity, conflict, power and society, creating learners that are compassionate, ambitious, curious and passionate critical thinkers.
The English curriculum supports our young people to deepen their understanding of the world around them by helping them to explore their own beliefs of key concepts and the beliefs of others. We provide a safe space in which to discuss society’s big questions and foster a culture of respect and empathy.
We also support pupils to be compassionate and keep each other safe by being mindful of the diverse range of beliefs and values held by others within our school community. We help them grow in their understanding of how literature mirrors real-world issues and help them discuss moral topics in a mature, respectful manner.
Beyond our classrooms, we provide meaningful enrichment opportunities such as cultural visits to Manchester libraries, fiction and non-fiction writing clubs in which budding writers can enter national competitions, debate clubs to develop oracy and articulation of ideas and reading competitions to foster our students’ love of reading for pleasure.
Fundamentally, the study of English at The Kingsway School will equip our young people with powerful knowledge and transferable skills that will empower them in their futures. Our dedication and passion lies within using the study of English to support the personal development of our students, ensuring they can not only achieve their full potential academically but can understand, engage with and challenge the world around them.
English KS3 Reading Progression Grid
English KS3 Writing Progression Grid
English Milestone Knowledge Trackers
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