English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.
In English, students learn about the study and use of the English language in its various textual forms. These encompass spoken, written and visual texts through which meaning is shaped, conveyed, interpreted and reflected. Complexity increases as students progress through their schooling.
Developing proficiency in English enables students to take their place as confident communicators; critical and imaginative thinkers; lifelong learners; and informed, active participants in Australian society. Their understanding of English through knowledge and skills acquisition is essential to their intellectual, social and emotional development.
The study of English should develop a love of literature and learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skills to enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, to become active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with each other and to reflect on their learning.
In Year 11 and 12, the study of English is mandatory. Courses offered include:
- English Extension 2
- English Extension 1
- English Advanced
- English Standard
- English Studies
- English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
- English Life Skills.
Additional enrichment is provided through extracurricular activities such as attending plays and literary events, particularly those presented locally at Riverside Theatres, Parramatta but also the Seymour Centre etc. Students are given the opportunity to attend the Writer’s Festival at Riverside Theatres each year, similarly aimed at enhancing literary talents and skills where students get to meet authors and engage in questions and answer forums. Through our close connection and collaboration with Riverside Theatres we have established The Riverside Theatres Drama Award. This generous award is given to a deserving student in any year at the annual Presentation Day.
Each year students attend incursions presented by Poetry in Action, a team of four dynamic actors who present a unique show designed to entertain and inspire students. Students learn about the amazing capabilities of the poetic form across a wide range of poetry and these events specifically support all our students in their assessments and examinations.
We offer a range of public speaking and debating events such as the Premier’s Debating Challenge, Lion’s Voice of Youth, University of Sydney Debating and the Hills Shire Council Public Speaking as well as the Soroptimist Public Speaking competition. All students are encouraged to add this to their extracurricular activities.
There is a lunch time Drama Club which is always well attended for students who do not take Drama as an elective. Drama Sports has been designed by the English Faculty to further develop students’ communication skills as well as engage the creative spirit of students across curricula.