English & Media Studies

What We Study

English and Media Studies help students understand the power of language, literature and communication. Students explore great texts, develop critical thinking, and learn how writers and creators shape meaning. Across all key stages, we foster a love of reading, encourage independent thought and equip students to analyse, interpret and create texts with confidence.

Key Stage 3

Students study a wide range of novels, plays, poetry, speeches and non fiction. They learn how writers use language, structure and rhetoric, and develop the vocabulary and cultural knowledge needed to engage with challenging texts. Lessons include opportunities for creative writing, performance and debate, and all KS3 classes begin with independent reading to build strong reading habits.

Key Stage 4 (GCSE English Language & English Literature)

Students follow the AQA specifications for both Language and Literature. They study significant literary works including Macbeth, A Christmas Carol, An Inspector Calls and the Power and Conflict poetry anthology. The Language course develops students’ ability to analyse unseen texts and craft effective writing for different audiences and purposes. Students also complete a Spoken Language assessment, writing and delivering a speech on a topic of their choice.

Key Stage 5 (A Level English Language, English Literature & Media Studies)

We offer three A Level pathways:

• English Language (OCR): Students explore how language works in real contexts, study linguistic theories and analyse a wide range of authentic texts. They also complete an independent language investigation.
• English Literature (AQA): Students study texts across eras and genres, including units on love through literature and writing from the First World War. They also complete a comparative coursework essay on two texts of their choice.
• Media Studies (EDUQAS): Students analyse media products across film, TV, advertising, newspapers, magazines, online media, radio and gaming. They explore how meaning is created and how media reflects social, political and historical contexts. Students also produce their own media texts for their NEA.

Beyond the Classroom

Students take part in a wide range of enrichment activities that deepen their appreciation of language, literature and media. These include reading initiatives, theatre visits and creative media projects that help bring their studies to life.