English

At Chaigeley school, the English curriculum aims to build confidence, engagement and a lasting love of language across Key Stages 2, 3 and 4. We follow the English National Curriculum, carefully adapting lessons so they are accessible, meaningful and supportive for all learners. Our approach ensures that every student, regardless of starting point, can experience success and make progress at a pace that is right for them.

For students working towards expected standards, we deliver high-quality phonics support through Read Write Inc. and Fresh Start Phonics. These programmes help learners develop secure skills in decoding, reading fluently, spelling accurately and understanding texts. By strengthening these foundations, students become more confident readers who can access a wider curriculum with increasing independence.

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Across the school, pupils study a broad range of engaging and diverse texts. These include novels such as Coraline, poetry from different cultures, and plays such as Blood Brothers. Through these texts, students explore themes, characters and ideas that promote discussion, empathy and critical thinking. We prioritise creative expression, giving pupils regular opportunities to write for different purposes and audiences.

A key focus of our English curriculum is promoting a love of reading. We are currently developing our school library to make it a warm, inviting and inclusive space where students can relax, browse books and discover new authors. Our aim is for the library to become a central hub of the school—a place that encourages curiosity, imagination and positive reading habits.

KS4

In Key Stage 4, we offer a range of pathways to ensure every learner can achieve a qualification suited to their abilities and future plans. Students can work towards Entry Level certificates, Functional Skills, or GCSE English Language. This flexibility ensures all students leave with recognised accreditation and a solid foundation for their next steps in education, employment or training.