Curriculum Intent

‘When I read great literature, great drama, speeches, or sermons, I feel that the human mind has not achieved anything greater that the ability to share feelings and thoughts through language.’ – James Earl Jones

English has a pre-eminent place in both education and society. A high quality education in English teaches students to speak and write fluently, so that they can effectively communicate their ideas and emotions to others. Through reading and listening, others can communicate with them, leading to further understanding across diverse cultural, national, age and gender boundaries, thus empowering students’ empathy for others.

Reading in particular, enables students to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. Literature especially, plays a key role in such development. Reading also enables students to flourish, acquiring knowledge and understanding, building on what they know as well as enriching their understanding of what they may not yet have experienced. All the skills of language are essential to participating fully as a valuable member of society.

At St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School, it is our intention to develop confident learners and developed young adults, who can communicate effectively in both the written and spoken form, whilst also ensuring that they have the patience and empathy to listen and respect the opinions of others.