BRITISH VALUES

Democracy
Explored through texts such as The Hunger Games (Yr7), An Inspector Calls (Yr10), and the anthology of speeches in Rhetoric and Revolution (Yr9), students examine themes of voice, representation, protest, and political systems.Through spoken language tasks, persuasive writing, and the study of rhetoric, pupils are encouraged to develop and express their opinions while evaluating a range of perspectives. From early on, students learn the value of participating in discourse, engaging with texts that question authority and promote democratic ideals.  

Tolerance of Those of Different Faiths and Beliefs
 Studied explicitly in Identity Poetry from Different Cultures (Yr8) and Conflict Poetry (Yr9 and Yr10), where students encounter a variety of religious, cultural, and historical viewpoints.Themes of belief, tradition, and moral conflict are also explored in Romeo and Juliet (Yr7), A Christmas Carol (Yr10), and in speech analysis during Rhetoric and Revolution (Yr9). Literature is used as a platform to explore and reflect on differences in faith and worldview, helping students develop empathy and cultural awareness.  

Mutual Respect
Encouraged through the study of literature that presents complex relationships, societal expectations, and emotional depth.
Texts such as Romeo and Juliet (Yr7), Gothic Literature and Fragile Minds (Yr8), Journey’s End (Yr9), and An Inspector Calls (Yr10) help students explore themes of love, mental health, prejudice, and responsibility.Students are supported in recognising diverse perspectives within texts and are encouraged to engage critically and respectfully with differing interpretations in written responses and class discussion. 

Individual Liberty
Promoted through units that allow students to explore identity, belief, and the consequences of freedom or its restriction.
In Origins and Allusions with Myths (Yr7), Identity Poetry (Yr8), and Rhetoric and Revolution (Yr9), students reflect on self-expression, personal history, and autonomy. Throughout the curriculum, pupils are encouraged to make independent interpretations and articulate their ideas clearly and confidently, fostering a sense of individual voice and moral independence.  .

The Rule of Law
Explored through texts that interrogate justice, morality, consequence, and authority.
Key works such as An Inspector Calls, Macbeth, and A Christmas Carol (Yr10) highlight the impact of social responsibility, legal systems, and personal accountability. Year 9’s units on Dystopias and Journey’s End investigate the breakdown or enforcement of law in extreme circumstances, such as war or totalitarian regimes. Across all year groups, students analyse how rules, both written and unwritten, influence characters and societies—developing their understanding of justice and ethical responsibility.  

GCSE English Language and Literature – AQA

At Key Stage 4, all students follow the AQA GCSE English Language and English Literature courses. Both qualifications are assessed through 100% examination at the end of Year 11.

English Literature Texts (AQA):

Students will study the following set texts:

• Macbeth by William Shakespeare

• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

• An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley

• AQA Poetry Anthology: Power and Conflict cluster

These texts are explored in depth, developing students' analytical, critical thinking, and essay-writing skills. We recommend that all students have their own annotated copies for revision and exam preparation.

English Language (AQA):

Students will be prepared for:

• Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing

• Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives

Lessons focus on close reading, creative writing, and non-fiction analysis. Practice papers and exemplar responses are available in the English area of the Student Google Drive, along with mark schemes and model answers.