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English
English is a compulsory core subject taken by all Shapwick pupils. Classes are normally small with fewer than ten pupils, though when appropriate classes may combine for team teaching in areas such as drama, media studies or exam revision.
Year 9 pupils are encouraged to read and respond to a range of increasingly demanding texts, and to write informatively and imaginatively. Pupils are then in years 10 and 11 given access to the full GCSE curriculum in English, generally at Foundation Level. There are assessments in Speaking and Listening, Reading and Writing, and many pupils achieve a commendable GCSE grade given their past difficulties. Use of IT is encouraged, to improve both fluency and presentation.
Each year the English team try to include a number of interesting visits, such as a regular visit to a professional production of a Shakespeare play, and the British Film Institute’s screenings and presentations on contemporary film. Year 9 and 10 pupils have also been able to visit the Globe Theatre, and their varied experiences in work and activities weeks are used as opportunities for oral and written outcomes.
