English
“When I read great literature, great drama, speeches, or sermons, I feel that the human mind has not achieved anything greater than the ability to share feelings and thoughts through language.”
James Earl Jones
At B.G.G.S, we believe that the teaching of English can provide the foundations of all learning and provide students with a mastery of skills that they will utilise throughout their lives. We are passionate about instilling young people with insightful and perceptive knowledge of the workings of the English language, of cultivating a love of literature and developing high levels of literacy. What students learn in the classroom will equip them with the resilience to navigate the world outside. The thoughts, philosophies, concepts and controversies they come across will plant the seed for learning and exploring the world that they live in.
Our students will engage with the world around them, and that often starts in the classroom. They will ask questions, and feel they have a voice and the skills to articulate their thoughts and opinions. They will be robust and be able to face difficult questions. Our students will know their own mind and if they don’t, they will be able to look in the right places for knowledge, inspiration and ideas.
In English, students will develop their reading, writing and spoken language skills. They will also develop skills of critical analysis, and explore the historical, social, and political landscape of a piece of writing or a performance. They will have a rich diet of language and literature, spanning non-fiction, poetry, prose, modern and literary heritage texts. All these will be underpinned by the building blocks of written communication – spelling and grammar.
We will promote student learning through our learning culture which challenges students and takes in to account their different experiences. We will provide a broad curriculum that builds their cultural capital through classical texts, culturally diverse stories and poems, challenging ideas and thought-provoking concepts.
We will acheive this by modelling high quality analysis, incisive questioning, a robust feedback system, access to a range of texts, opportunities to participate in competitions, and encouragement to undertake wider reading. We will maintain our high aspirations for our young people, ensuring we continue to develop our own knowledge, practice and skills so that we can be the best for them.
The English team at Bordesley Green Girls' School and Sixth Form will provide students with an inclusive education that sparks the joy of learning and ensures our students become lifelong learners.
Key Stage 3 & Key Stage 4 English Programme, (up to GCSE)
Key Stage 5 English Programme, (A Level)
