English

Welcome to the English department!

‘Good books offer stimulus, escapism and reflection. They are windows and mirrors. Those who have the power- the gatekeepers of literature for children, those of us who commission, programme and buy books- must wield it, so that all our children have every opportunity to find themselves and others in their stories.’ 

- Clader, D. Our Children Are Reading, Breaking New Ground 2021

English Curriculum Intent

We strive to share our passion for English, highlighting the power of language and the responsibility that accompanies its use. We desire that all students have equal opportunity to access the wonderful world of words, empowering them to confidently articulate their view of the human condition and the world they experience. We stress the importance of exploring and respecting alternative viewpoints, making students consciously aware of the effect of their language.  Thus, our curriculum aims to introduce students to a diverse selection of texts, including fiction and non-fiction material from a variety of different cultures and social perspectives. This facilitates students in acquiring knowledge and skill over time. Whilst doing so, we also endeavour to enable learners of all abilities to be functionally literate and apply language appropriately in a range of mediums.

The sequencing of material enables students to acquire knowledge whilst developing interpretation, inference, analysis, evaluation, oracy and writing skills over time. Each unit recalls and interleaves knowledge and skill from previous units, maximising student potential to consistently master all strands. Alongside this, we sculpt focus on the more abstract elements of our subject to ensure they are applied to real life situations. This includes issues encountered by our student body and the local community, in line with national curriculum and local police safeguarding guidance. This approach strives to prepare them for their first steps into the wider world and future employment, whilst experiencing a broad and balanced English curriculum.

Curriculum Map

 

Meet the team

Mrs Hill - Head of Department

Hello! My name is Mrs Hill and I am very proud to lead the English team at Wixams Academy. I have now been at the academy for four years and taught in other settings in the local area prior to this. English has always been a passion of mine; I am continually captivated by the beauty and power of language and imagination. When I am not teaching, I enjoy reading, creative writing, crafts and swimming. My favourite book is ‘Nineteen Eighty-Four’ by George Orwell.

Mrs Baden

I am Mrs Baden and I have worked in the local area for a number of years, before joining the Wixams community in 2019. I am passionate about literature, art and sociology within education. Outside of this I like to spend my time outdoors gardening, gaming, travelling or with animals.

Miss Crapnell

My name is Miss Crapnell. I am an English teacher and year 7 tutor at Wixams Academy. I enjoy reading, travelling and spending time outside. I love teaching literature, poetry and creative writing. I think English is an incredibly important subject as it gives us an opportunity to explore experiences that are different from our own and empathise with people from all over the world. My favourite YA book is Chaos Walking by Patrick Ness. My favourite classic novel is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

Miss Perry

I joined Wixams Academy in September 2018 and I have loved seeing our school community grow over the last few years. Although I love teaching all aspects of English Language and Literature, I most enjoy teaching Shakespeare. Being part of the RSC Associate Schools Programme means that we use rehearsal room techniques; this makes the experience far more engaging and accessible for our students. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors and long walks with my dog, Ziggy. My favourite novel is ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ by Margaret Atwood.

Miss Reilly

I am Miss Reilly. Before pursuing my passion as an English Teacher, I lived in the French Alps learning to snowboard. I have participated in charity events such as running marathons, cycling from London to Paris and climbing Kilimanjaro. I am in my third year of teaching at Wixams Academy and I am proud of the community we are creating here in Wixams. My favourite books are the Harry Potter series.

Miss Turney  

I joined Wixams Academy in its founding year and have been astounded at how much it has evolved over the last few years. I am passionate about teaching and feel privileged that I am able to celebrate the successes and progress that each and every student makes; inside and outside the classroom. 

When I am not in school I enjoy being out in the fresh air exploring with my family. After travelling a small part of the world prior to teacher training, that curiosity of discovering new places has never left; be it near or far! My favourite childhood book will always be Heidi by Johanna Spyri. I remember reading it over and over and hope that one day my own children will love it just as much! I am currently reading ‘The Dark Lady’ by Akala and am intrigued by his creativity and twist of Shakespearean influence that runs through each page. 

Extra Opportunities

• Regular trips (including theatre shows and literary heritage sites)
• Schools newspaper
• Debate Club
• Carnegie Book Award reading group
• Workshops and school visitors
• Wixams Reading Group
• RSC Associate Member Status- visits from RSC, workshop activities and career guidance
• Oracy 21 member with an oracy skills focus