Welcome to the English Department.

 

Welcome to a subject which is full of variety. 

 

One day we may be exploring personal experience through writing a poem or composing a chapter of an autobiography.

 

Another day we may be reading a challenging text whose rich and subtle language makes it ripe for exploration.

 

Then there are all the possibilities offered by drama: acting in a scene from a Shakespeare play – or exploring a text through role-play.

 

We could be debating a current issue, writing our own speeches as well as listening to the views of others.  We could be comparing and analysing the ways in which different sorts of newspapers cover the same story.

 

English involves all this – and much more.  It all requires energy, alertness and imagination.  It may at times seem like hard work, but it should also be fun – at least some of the time.

 

English is important because it helps us develop as perceptive and appreciative readers.  It also stretches our creative talents as imaginative writers with a confident grasp of language and technique.  It underpins work in most other school subjects, and will continue to be important throughout life.

 

The English Department at Nottingham High School is there to help you develop as successful readers and writers – and, we hope, to let you enjoy yourselves at the same time.

 

William Ruff

Head of Department