The English curriculum aims to create a relevant, creative and challenging scheme of study that builds vital skills as well as opportunities to achieve several qualifications. We understand that young people may come to us with gaps in their learning, so when they arrive we get to know about their knowledge and skills and then personalise learning to maximise their progress and engage their interest. We offer both English Literature and English Language GCSE qualifications; Functional Skills 1 and 2; and the ARTS Award.
Our vision at Key Stage 4 is to ensure our students leave school equipped with the knowledge and skills to enable them to make their next steps and to open up unlimited opportunities for them in the future. We recognise and celebrate that this looks different for each student. In response to this, we have three qualifications that students can work towards.
The foundation of our Key Stage 4 curriculum is an appreciation of literature and reading. We use the Edexcel GCSE English Literature syllabus as a springboard for learning about character, intention and theme. Key knowledge and context are inbuilt and revisited throughout the two years. Students will also develop their analysis of language and structure and learn to evaluate texts. The set texts we study for possible examination at the end of Year 11 are:
However, when new students who have already begun their Literature course elsewhere join us, we adapt the course to meet their learning needs as much as possible.
We also encourage reading for pleasure. Our stand-alone reading lessons focus on more contemporary, socially-focused novels, where we practice reciprocal reading skills. We also encourage independent reading for homework.
Alongside GCSE Literature texts, students will learn the reading and writing skills they need to be successful with the GCSE Language qualification. They will continue to develop their creative writing as well as their non-fiction writing throughout KS4. Another cornerstone of our approach is using speaking, listening and drama to aid comprehension, inference and confidence. All students are examined on this GCSE at the end of Year 11.To view the English Language and English Literature curriculums, click on the links below:
Year 10 English Curriculum Map
Year 11 English Curriculum Map
We also offer modular Functional Skills exams throughout Year 10 and 11, as exam preparation for GCSEs. This offers young people the chance to build important literacy skills, as well as experience exam-like conditions. Students can ‘bank’ modules and take resits if they need to. These Functional Skills exams are in addition to, rather than instead of, GCSE exams.
The ARTS Award aims to enable learners to understand how to develop their own arts practice and arts leadership skills, underpinned by knowledge of their own art form and its relationship to arts provision in the community. We work with the Art department, as well as outside providers, to offer visits to the theatre, create and lead on an arts project and research, and investigate an artist of the student’s choice.
Class sizes at New River College are generally no bigger than five students and often smaller. We also have a team of Learning Support Assistants who can offer one-to-one support to students who require it. For students requiring support with their literacy, we can timetable in opportunities for them to work closely with an English specialist who can identify their barriers to learning and use appropriate interventions to ensure they make accelerated progress. Students at KS4 are also encouraged to attend after-school revision classes regardless of their pathway. Teachers will plan sessions that are tailored to the needs of the student.
For further information on these courses, select the links below:
We offer plenty of opportunities for students to develop their enjoyment of English through visits to the theatre, visits from authors, and workshops with professionals from lots of different industries. In addition, extra-curricular activities strengthen students’ understanding and engagement with the texts we study. We also have strong links to PSHE, Citizenship and careers to enable pupils to make a positive transition into their Key Stage 5 studies.
We often take a ‘flipped-classroom’ approach in English, where students are set relevant and engaging homework weekly in preparation for lessons. Homework can also be set online using our school’s shared area which can be accessed from any computer. Students will be given opportunities to log into programmes such as Lexia to work independently to consolidate the learning they do in school.
Internal assessment of students includes:
Parents will receive a termly report about what went well for their child, as well as ways forward to improve wellbeing and progress.
External assessment of students includes:
For each of these qualifications, there are mock exams throughout Year 10 and Year 11. Some of these exams are ‘supported mocks’ with guidance on how to approach longer answer questions. These supported mocks are withdrawn the closer students get to the end of Year 11 so that they can prepare more effectively for the real exams where they must complete tasks independently.
Progression from GCSE colleges, sixth forms and apprenticeships are likely to require that students have a minimum of a Grade 4 at English GCSE or a Level 1 Functional Skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening. Successful completion of these courses will ensure students have the skills to move on from New River College regardless of which post-16 pathway they choose.