English at Charlton House
Subject Leader: Ms Delbridge
English is central to every pupil’s life at Charlton House. Whether discussing a topic in history or explaining the outcomes of a science experiment, the language used is English. A passion for reading and writing is therefore at the heart of our curriculum, as we believe it is our responsibility to enable children to communicate effectively, sensitively and with confidence. Children from Year R to Year 6 are encouraged to do this through both the spoken and written word, with the aim of developing an excitement and enthusiasm for rich literature and language.
We use the Literary curriculum for our English, this is a complete, thematic approach to the teaching of primary English that places children’s literature at its core. Our English curriculum is underpinned by a breadth of high-quality texts which both engage and extend pupils’ understanding. Each text is carefully chosen to develop pupils’ imagination, vocabulary, language structure and a love of reading. Where possible, careful links are made to the wider curriculum so that pupils apply their reading skills to writing in a range of contexts. Pupils develop a knowledge and understanding of a wide range of fiction and non-fiction texts, as well as poetry and playscripts. Skills in reading, spelling, handwriting and the correct use of grammar and punctuation are continually reinforced through carefully planned discrete lessons in addition to being incorporated into English lessons.
Our recently refurbished beautiful library occupies an entire third of our expansive top floor. With its sweeping views across the city of Southampton, it provides a colourful yet serene environment where our children can become lost in literature. We study a range of high quality, contemporary and classic fiction, non-fiction and poetry; from the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt to the futuristic worlds of modern sci-fi; from the letters of Churchill to the slums of Dickens’ London; from the trenches of the First World War to 1984, Hogwarts and beyond.
Please see below our shared vision: