The English department at St.Cenydd is passionate about providing students with an overwhelmingly positive and motivating experience in English. We appreciate that the ability to read, write and communicate well are skills that are critical in terms of accessing the rest of the curriculum. We also comprehend how these skills enable students to gain the most out of their life experiences as a whole. Therefore, we aim to equip pupils with the necessary skills to go on to be successful within the subject, the curriculum as a whole and also within their wider experiences outside of the classroom.

“He that loves reading has everything within his reach”,

William Goodwin

Students in years 7-9 develop their skills in Speaking and Listening, Reading and Writing through exciting and interactive learning plans, library lessons and drama. Through enjoyment of the English language, they develop and deepen their skills and understanding in preparation for the demands of the curriculum at GCSE.

The course followed at key stage 4 depends upon the strengths of the individual. Many students study two GCSEs, one in English Language and one in English Literature; some pupils follow a course leading to the award of a GCSE in English Language only. A small group each year study for an Entry Level qualification.

English Literature is taught at AS and A2 level. We have a healthy number of students who opt to further their experiences of the subject displaying a real passion and enthusiasm for their English studies. We cover a range of components for this course and it gives students a really impressive foundation for further study post-18 and indeed for their professional lives in the future.

Students of English are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities. Theatre trips, writer workshops, author talks, cinema trips, trips to Stratford on Avon, visiting theatre groups, competitions, themed days and debating are all examples of activities run by the department. Furthermore, the department offers an enormous amount of extra support through additional revision sessions and mentoring, particularly through years 9-13. Students are encouraged to attend many events throughout the course of the year and the department makes every effort to create a stimulating culture of opportunity in order to support all students in realising their full potential.  

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