The English curriculum at KS3 follows the National Literacy Strategy. Pupils have opportunities to study a variety of texts, including fiction, non-fiction, media, poetry and Shakespeare. Spelling, grammar and punctuation skills are developed throughout KS3.
A variety of teaching and learning activities are built into lessons, including group work, talk for learning, ICT and performance and presentation work. Pupils work in forms in Y7 then in broad ability groups in Y8 and 9. Work is set according to their ability and individual targets are set after key pieces of work. There is regular assessment using a combination of coursework and tests.
In Y9, pupils prepare for their SATs exams, which consist of Reading, Writing and Shakespeare papers. Pupils can attend SATs revision classes held on Mondays after school. Most students should be working to achieve a Level 5 or above by the end of KS3.