Our aim in teaching English is to encourage a love of literature and an appreciation of imaginative, original and expressive writing.
English at the School is designed to be accessible to all pupils, regardless of their first language, while at the same time providing engagement and challenge. The subject is not just about reading and writing, although these core skills are explicitly developed. English plays a key role in promoting intellectual curiosity and academic attainment across the curriculum and emphasis is placed on accuracy and discernment in the use of the English language.
The subject's particular suitability for discussing moral, social, historical and philosophical concerns is celebrated and explored at all levels, and this can be particularly exciting in a school where so many different cultures converge. The style of teaching embraces many of the arts, and pupils will often examine a painting or piece of music, for example, as a way to enhance their enjoyment of literature.
Each year-group follows a similar pattern through the academic year, and pupils can expect to encounter poetry, drama, fiction and non-fiction in many forms, as well as practice in public speaking and presentation. The small class sizes mean that texts can often be chosen with the pupils' own interests and tastes in mind at the same time as broadening their own horizons.
The B1 and B2 years follow a two-year course of study towards GCSE public examinations in both English Literature and English Language. Exam results are very strong. Those choosing to take public examinations at A Level will enjoy a rich and demanding course in English Literature, again designed around the interests of the group.
English as an additional language
The Yehudi Menuhin School attracts pupils from all over the world, many of whom do not speak English as their first or even second language. Although the multicultural and multilingual background of both pupils and staff is perceived very much as an asset which contributes to the school's lively international atmosphere, it is essential for all pupils to be able to speak English. Within the school it is necessary to communicate with fellow pupils and staff and to cope with academic work. For the world outside, our students are aware of the importance of English as an international language and as a key to wider educational opportunities.
New pupils usually attend two EAL lessons a week to accelerate their progress and to give them the confidence to use what English they already have. Throughout the school all the staff are very aware of their pupils' needs and use their own subjects as vehicles for teaching English - support that is much appreciated! The other children also play an important part. Many of them have been in a similar position themselves and are willing to take the time to help and encourage those whose English is still weak.
At all levels classes are conducted entirely in English. Occasionally lessons are one to one but more often in pairs or small groups, with all classes providing ample opportunity to meet individual needs. A variety of specialist textbooks are used and, as well as the main skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, there is a strong focus on grammar and vocabulary. Classes are mainly oral with pairs and small groups encouraged to co-operate with each other in drills and discussion activities. This provides an element of unpredictability enjoyed by both pupils and staff alike! Written work is usually set for homework. Because not everyone within the school does EAL, pupils have to take some responsibility for organising their own learning. This includes finding time to do their homework and to check new vocabulary.