‘Two roads diverged in a wood, and I ..I took the one less travelled by, And that has made all the difference.’ Robert Frost – The Road Not taken – US poet (1874 – 1963)

The aim of the English Department is to promote independent means of communication. In line with ‘’Every Child Matters’’, we aim to offer a broad and balanced curriculum based on the National Curriculum. English plans are differentiated to meet the needs of individual pupils. Fundamental to the work done in English is the development of speaking and listening skills which are addressed throughout the school day, as well as through ‘’Communication and Interaction’’ sessions led by tutors.

Units of work are differentiated according to the needs of all pupils. Many of our students benefit from multi-sensory approaches to learning and communication. We therefore make full use of signing and symbols to support speech, so that pupils can draw on a wide range of cues to support their understanding. We encourage learning to continue across the curriculum and outside of school.

Pupils are reminded of the importance of reading in school and are encouraged to read at home on a regular basis.

As a department, we offer focused support groups to selected pupils to boost their Literacy Skills. The focus of these groups is dependant on the pupils and their ability; the aim is to raise attainment and enable children to enjoy and achieve. The support materials available are carefully structured to personalise learning and increase self-esteem.

Alderman Knight School is actively involved in Assessment for Learning, including objective led lessons where pupils are made aware of their success criteria. Lessons follow a three part structure of a Starter Activity, Main Activity and Plenary where the lesson objective is clearly identified and visible throughout the lesson and referred back to during the course of the lesson. Learning styles of pupils (VAK) are identified early and strategies implemented into lesson plans. Oral and written feedback, including peer and self assessment is completed as part of the plenary. Pupils are set English targets from the B-Squared Assessment system and personal targets (IEP’s) from their Statement of Educational Needs.

To enhance pupil’s cultural capital we study a wide variety of texts to inform, engage and entertain, giving them a broad literary experience. Through the study of different texts, students are given the opportunity to explore a range of genre; from gothic horror to myths and legends – given them a broad literacy experience.