At Key Stage 4, our curriculum is designed to build on the foundations laid in KS3, providing students with a deeper and more sophisticated understanding of literature and language. Aligned with the Eduqas GCSE English Language and Literature specifications, our curriculum aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication. By the end of KS4, students are not only prepared for their GCSE examinations but are also well-rounded individuals ready to tackle the challenges of further academic pursuits and their future careers. 

Our KS4 curriculum emphasizes the development of critical analysis, interpretative skills, and articulate expression. Through the study of texts such as Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, students explore complex themes of love, conflict, and fate, while honing their ability to analyze Shakespearean language and dramatic techniques. Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol offers opportunities to examine themes of social justice, redemption, and the human condition, encouraging students to engage with historical and societal contexts. J.B. Priestley's An Inspector Calls introduces students to themes of responsibility and social inequality, fostering critical discussions about morality and ethics. 

Literacy and oracy are integral to our curriculum. We embed these skills through regular reading, writing, and speaking activities using the accountable talk framework. Students are encouraged to articulate their ideas clearly and confidently, both in written assignments and class discussions. This focus on literacy and oracy ensures that students develop strong communication skills that are essential for their academic and personal growth. Additionally, the spoken language component of the English Language GCSE is a key part of our curriculum, where students practice and refine their public speaking and presentation skills, preparing them for real-world communication scenarios. 

Throughout KS4, we embed English Language skills teaching to cover the core elements of the English Language GCSE. This includes developing students' abilities in reading comprehension, textual analysis, and creative writing. We focus on enhancing their skills in writing for different purposes and audiences, using a variety of styles and tones. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of accurate grammar, punctuation, and spelling, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the technical demands of the English Language GCSE. 

Our curriculum is not just about academic excellence but also about personal growth. We embed Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development throughout our teaching. Through the exploration of diverse texts and themes, students reflect on their own values and beliefs, develop a sense of social responsibility, and learn to appreciate cultural diversity. We encourage students to express their ideas confidently, both in writing and verbally, and to collaborate effectively with their peers.