English

Language is the means by which we communicate. Achieving competence in speaking, listening, reading and writing is a vital part of a student's education. Without effective language teaching, a student's capacity to succeed throughout the whole curriculum is limited. 

The literature we study at RBA reflects the experiences of people from different cultures and times. Students learn to become enthusiastic and critical readers of fiction and non-fiction. Looking at the structures, origins and conventions of English helps us to understand how language works. 

Students are taught to write in a variety of forms and for a range of purposes and audiences. Students plan, revise and proof-read, considering the effectiveness of their writing. In order to write well, knowledge of grammar and spelling is essential. Students receive regular teaching in these areas as well as punctuation and vocabulary work. Students work on specific spelling rules and a grammar/punctuation focus each week. KS2 have access to 'Spelling Shed' and KS3 use half-termly booklets to support this area of their learning.

Students are taught English in their mixed ability form classes in Year 5 until October, and then are set according to ability. Those who find English challenging are taught in small groups where their needs can be met further. In Year 6, students are taught in sets according to their ability. In KS3, students are placed in either a stretch/challenge set or mixed ability. Again, those who find the subject challenging are offered further support in their lessons. These groups are reviewed throughout the year, with changes being made where necessary. 

Students are taught how to retrieve information, analyse and evaluate what they read. Intervention strategies are used where students may need specific guidance. Poetry, novels and non-fiction texts are studied throughout each year group. Opportunities are provided for high quality discussion to extend the skills of inference and deduction and to consider a writer's choice of language to create effects.

Emphasis in Years 7 and 8 is placed on students’ written responses to literature through an essay style, in preparation for GCSE work as well as continuing to develop their narrative writing skills. Year 7 and 8 are assessed through regular teacher assessments to ensure they are making progress academically and as individuals. Students are encouraged to read widely in lessons and at home, as well as during extra-curricular clubs. Oracy plays a significant part in our curriculum, where we strive to build confidence in every student. We work tirelessly to ensure that all students have a VOICE.