English

We live in a world which is saturated by communication: from emails and the media through to Shakespeare and Simon Armitage, the genres multiply and the power of the written and spoken word is everywhere in evidence.

Never has it been more important to be literate, both as a producer of text and meaning, and as a discerning, critical consumer. The English Department embraces this challenge - we maintain our delivery of the cultural heritage alongside a dynamic willingness to change and develop. Look into any classroom and you will see innovative well resourced teaching that recognises where we have been and looks forward to where we are going.

The Department offers English Language and English Literature at GCSE and A level. There is a vibrant creative writing community outside of the classroom, as well as Book Clubs and Film Making Clubs. Pupils go out on theatre trips, visit media centres and attend seminars run by Durham and other Universities.

In the landscape of Ted Hughes and William Wordsworth, we hope more budding poets will spring from our School.