Enhancing Pupils' Literacy

Towards the end of the Summer term, Headmaster Mr John Watson, aware of a renewed focus within many of the new GCSE examinations on accurate and articulate expression, urged all departments to enhance the literacy of our pupils. He stated:

'Regardless of our specialisms, we are all teachers of literacy in that we all have a duty to insist on the highest possible standards in pupils’ writing and speaking – and to model such standards ourselves.'

The focus on literacy, from Shells through to the Sixth Form, has seen Deputy Head (Academic) Mr Alistair Hopkins and Head of English Mrs Kate Duke promote a grammar focus each half-term. Beginning with the basics (capital letters and the use of full stops) at the start of this academic year, the focus during the rest of this term is now on 'topic sentences and paragraphing'; each form has an A4 poster of the graphic accompanying this article, explaining the key principles. Where appropriate, extended pieces of writing are also now given a simple assessment for accuracy.

We remind you that our 2015 Reading Week begins on Monday and our Main Library hosts its traditional Book Fair for pupils.