English

When pupils arrive at Mary Astell Academy their academic ability in English is assessed through a reading and writing baseline, as well as a New group Reading Test to establish their reading age. The data collected from this assessment, combined with information received from previous schools, helps identify the suitable qualification pathway for each individual pupil.  

During Key Stage 3 pupils study a range of fiction and non-fiction texts and extracts, based around broad topics, such as: Dystopian fiction, America in the 1930s, Poetry through Time and Shakespeare. Within these topics, pupils will engage with the core National Curriculum skills in English, to prepare them for Key Stage4.

At Key Stage 4 pupils follow AQA GCSE English Language specification.  We believe that the study of English enables pupils to access other cultures and traditions through a variety of texts. Pupils also have the opportunity to complete Functional Skills Level 1 and 2 qualifications through Edexcel.

Pupils on the Functional Skills pathway follow Edexcel's Level 1 and 2 Functional Skills English qualifications. As well as this, they will also access assessments leading to Entry Level 1 to Level 3. 

English News