English
OVERVIEW
English at King’s Prep is designed to develop pupils’ speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Students are taught spelling, grammar, punctuation, handwriting, and touch-typing, while engaging with a wide variety of literature and non-fiction texts. The aim is to provide children with enriching experiences through the written and spoken word, nurturing excellent readers and writers equipped for the 21st Century.
OUR SYLLABUS
The English curriculum is designed as a spiral, ensuring progression from Pre-Prep through to preparation for the ISEB Common Entrance curriculum in Years 7 and 8. It evolves over time, introducing new texts, ICT, and cross-curricular activities to keep learning vibrant and meaningful.
WHY STUDY ENGLISH?
English is not just about language skills; it’s about fostering creativity and critical thinking. The curriculum is enriched with trips, drama activities, and creative events, including National Poetry Day and World Book Day. The English department aims to create an active, engaging environment where pupils can explore diverse literary forms and develop a love for both reading and writing.
English-related trips include plays (in collaboration with the Drama department), visits to Cleeve Abbey and Coleridge Cottage, National Poetry Day events, and author visits. Pupils also participate in book clubs and writing competitions.
At King’s College Prep, reading is at the heart of learning. Our two libraries—one in the main school building and the other near the Pre-Prep classrooms—are vibrant spaces that support pupils in their journey to becoming lifelong readers. With a wealth of fiction, non-fiction, magazines, and online resources, the library is central to academic success. Regular events like Book Club gatherings, book breakfasts, author visits, and reading competitions are designed to inspire a love for reading.
English teaches students to communicate effectively in both digital and analogue formats. It fosters empathy, creativity, and resilience, preparing pupils to be thoughtful communicators with a growth mindset.
