English Vision StatementÂ
Lifelong Literate Learners
Vision
The Blue Coat School’s vision for the English curriculum in Prep is built on the following principles which underpin our teaching and learning:
- Awakening intrigue through portals of discovery: encountering complex characters
- Crafting compositions: the power of the pen. Propelling powerful orators and captivating attentive listeners
- Turning the page, in a digital age
A new chapter begins at BCS!
In The Classroom
In Years 3 and 4, English is taught within pupils’ form groups. From Year 5, English is taught in sets. There are typically five sets per year group, enabling smaller class sizes. This also enables pupils to learn amongst like-minded pupils, who are similar in ability and learning styles. Our senior school results show that this approach to teaching English is highly effective in stimulating excellent subject knowledge, a love of reading and writing and a broad understanding of English language and literature.
At The Blue Coat School we will provide the tools to access and enjoy the English language. Teachers will support your child with the best possible chance, not only to pass examinations but also for an enriched and productive adult life.
0%
below the national average for reading
17%
in line with the national average for reading
83%
above the national average for reading
Reading for Pleasure
Reading for pleasure is what we strive for at The Blue Coat School. We engage pupils in Guided Reading sessions across the whole school and some year groups will still have a dedicated library session built in to their weekly learning. Rich texts are studied to understand how to develop a writer’s voice. Language choices are examined through texts and passages. Pupils also learn about grammatical structures and accurate use of punctuation.
An Extraordinary Lesson
We are very fortunate at The Blue Coat School to have a rich and diverse curriculum which fosters learning in a myriad of ways.Â
Enrichment Days
For English, pupils in Prep will experience enrichment days such as Shakespeare Day with The Young Shakespeare Company and World Book Day, which occurs annually in March. Enrichment days offer pupils an immersive learning experience where they not only dress up for the day, but fulfil a whole day of imaginative and creative activities to enhance their learning of the English language.
Competitions and Events
Pupils from The Blue Coat School also take part in a range of external competitions and events in English. In 2022, our pupils placed third in the West Midlands Regional Heats of the National Reading Quiz, earning the accolade of the top scoring primary setting.
English Speaking Board
Year 2, 3 and 4 pupils take part in English Speaking Board exams. This is a recognised accreditation to reflect Oracy and understanding of the English language. The Blue Coat School consistently performs exceptionally well. The possible gradings are: fail, pass, pass+, merit, merit+ and distinction.
In 2022, our pupils achieved:Â
37%
Distinction
40%
Merit+
23%
Merit
Prep Library
In addition to library lessons, the Prep Library is open at breaktime and lunchtimes for children to enjoy our many books as well as fun activities and themes.
The School Librarian ensures the Prep Library is stocked with books from the reading list, recent releases as well as topical books on social issues such as race equality and sustainability.
You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.
Paul Sweeney
Lifelong Love of Learning
As our vision for English is lifelong literate learners, we ensure there are opportunities for pupils to access reading and writing opportunities outside of the School day. Every year group hub has a reading corner, with books hand-selected and regularly refreshed by the School Librarian. The Blue Coat School also has a very popular LAMDA club after school where they develop a range of literacy and communication skills in a fun and dynamic setting. We also host events for Prep pupils such as an annual Harry Potter evening, which once again embraces children’s love of a very popular fantasy series!