English

English at Notton House

Cultivating confident communicators through language and literature

Vision and Aims

At Notton House Academy, our English Department is committed to providing an environment which cultivates and encourages the effective application of reading, writing, and speaking and listening. We believe that English and literacy should be accessible, engaging, and empowering for all our learners, helping them develop the language skills they need to participate fully in society.

Our approach embodies the school's core values of Safety, Kindness, and Respect by creating a supportive learning environment where pupils feel secure to express themselves, make mistakes, and grow as confident communicators. We understand that many of our pupils may have experienced difficulties with literacy or educational trauma, so we focus on building confidence through varied and stimulating activities that celebrate both creative and analytical thinking.

How We Teach English: English content is taught through carefully planned units that develop reading, writing, speaking and listening skills systematically. Knowledge is introduced through a variety of learning styles and activities to develop both the creative and analytical aspects of the English curriculum. Ideas and skills are revisited regularly to improve learning and long-term retention.

Lesson Structure: Our lessons follow the EPIBA model to maximise learning:

Engage - Hook pupils into the lesson with engaging texts and contexts
Prior learning/Retrieval - Check understanding from previous lessons
Introduce new knowledge - Present new concepts, vocabulary or skills clearly
Build knowledge - Develop understanding through guided practice and discussion
Apply knowledge - Use learning in reading, writing, speaking and listening tasks

Each lesson also includes language development and a plenary to showcase learning.

Challenge and Differentiation: To ensure all pupils are appropriately challenged, we provide varied and stimulating learning activities that recognise different learning styles. Tasks are clearly labelled as "prior learning", "core learning" and "extend and challenge" to help pupils extend their knowledge beyond the standard curriculum expectations.

Our commitment is to ensure that all pupils:

Become confident and competent with the spoken and written forms of language
Develop as independent learners with strong literacy skills
Experience both creative and analytical aspects of English through quality literature
Gain appropriate English qualifications that reflect their true potential
Understand that control of language in all its forms will enable them to participate fully in society

What qualifications are on offer?

We provide a range of qualifications to meet every pupil's needs and aspirations, ensuring multiple pathways to success:

Entry Level Certificate in English

Foundation English skills covering reading, writing, speaking and listening
Perfect for building confidence and establishing core literacy skills
All pupils can study for this qualification

Functional Skills English

Practical English skills for real-life situations and employment
Develops communication skills highly valued by employers
Suitable pathway for many pupils based on prior attainment

GCSE English Language

Comprehensive English qualification covering language and literature
Available for pupils showing strong progress and suitability
Gateway to further education and career opportunities

All qualifications are carefully matched to individual pupil needs, prior attainment, and future aspirations.

How are Pupils Assessed?

Our assessment approach is designed to support learning rather than simply measure it, reflecting our trauma-informed practice and commitment to individual growth.

Ongoing Assessment for Learning:

Regular marking, learning conversations and assessment provide ongoing feedback
Assessment reinforces strengths and identifies areas for development
Pupils receive encouragement to develop as independent learners

Progress Tracking:

Pupil progress is assessed regularly using data to inform planning
Individual learning journeys are celebrated, recognising that progress looks different for every pupil
We encourage and reward the highest possible standard of achievement so all pupils can realise their full potential

Formal Assessment:

Assessment methods are matched to individual pupil needs and qualification requirements
Pupils following formal qualification routes will experience appropriate preparation
Stress management and exam technique support provided through regular THRIVE sessions, key working and therapeutic support

Pathways and Life Opportunities

English education at Notton House Academy opens doors to a wide range of exciting and rewarding opportunities, directly supporting our mission to improve life chances for all pupils.

Recent Year 11 Destinations: Our pupils have successfully progressed to:

Further education colleges where English is required
Apprenticeships requiring strong communication skills
Employment in local businesses and services
Specialist SEMH provisions for continued development

Entry Level and Functional Skills graduates often progress to:

GCSE English Language pathways
Apprenticeships in various sectors
Further education opportunities

GCSE English Language qualifications provide pathways to:

Wide range of further education courses
Employment and apprenticeship routes across all sectors
Accessing post-16 college opportunities

English is essential for success in education, employment and life. Strong literacy skills develop critical thinking, communication abilities, and confidence that benefit every aspect of adult life.

How Can You Support Your Child?

Encourage your child to read regularly, both for pleasure and information. Discuss what they are reading and help them see the relevance of strong communication skills in everyday life. Reading together, talking about books, films and current events, all help develop the language skills that are essential for success in all areas of life.

Notton House Academy is part of Midsomer Norton Schools' Partnership

Our Core Values: Safety • Kindness • Respect