Teacher Blog: Focus on English
English at West Buckland School: Empowering Students To Think Boldly.
At West Buckland School, our approach to English is built on a simple belief: when students develop a genuine love of language and learning, exceptional results naturally follow. This year, our students once again outperformed national trends at both GCSE and A Level – an achievement that speaks to the strength of our teaching, the ambition of our pupils, and the rich, rigorous curriculum that underpins their success.
Through high quality teaching, vibrant classroom discussions, and a focus on the transferable skills that support progress across every subject, we empower students to become confident readers, skilled writers and independent thinkers.
A Dynamic and Enriching Curriculum
Beyond examinations, the English Department delivers a rich, engaging curriculum throughout Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. Shakespeare sits at the heart of our teaching, offering timeless themes that captivate students of all ages.
Year 7 enjoy The Tempest through the lens of the Age of Discovery, culminating in insightful assessments examining the complex power dynamics between Caliban and Prospero.
Year 8 explore the tragic intensity of Romeo and Juliet, focusing on the courage and defiance of its young protagonists.
Year 9 enjoy lighter exploration of Shakespeare through Much Ado About Nothing, immersing themselves in wit, comedy and mistaken identity.
Meanwhile, Year 13 focus on producing sophisticated coursework on themes as varied as class, love in dystopian fiction, and representations of power and gender in contemporary television such as Educating Cardiff and The Apprentice.
A School That Reads: Building a Culture of Reading for Pleasure
At West Buckland School, reading is much more than a classroom activity – it is a cornerstone of how we help students grow as thinkers, communicators and compassionate young people. Across every phase of the school, we create opportunities for students to explore books widely, engage with ideas deeply and develop the confidence to express their own thoughts with clarity and imagination.
To champion this vision, we recently launched our Reading Ambassadors Programme, led by Miss Wreford and Mrs Warrilow. Through their infectious enthusiasm, expert recommendations and thought‑provoking discussions, students are encouraged to see reading not as a task, but as an exciting journey. This programme celebrates reading in all its forms and creates a shared culture of curiosity and inspiration.
In Key Stage 3, students work towards their bronze, silver and gold reading badges, demonstrating both commitment and growing independence. They learn to:
- Give presentations
- Write thoughtful book reviews
- Craft and refine blurbs
- Explore genres outside their comfort zone
These activities build essential literacy skills while nurturing a genuine love for books. And as this year marks the National Year of Reading, the whole school is embracing the challenge to read more, and read more widely, than ever before.
Tutors also play a key role by reading aloud to their groups. Carefully chosen texts, including Bubble Wrap Boy and Play by visiting author Luke Palmer, give students the chance to hear great writing brought to life and to experience the joy of shared storytelling.
Equipping Older Students with Real‑World Understanding
In Key Stages 4 and 5, students broaden their perspectives through a new programme focused on non‑fiction and real‑world issues. They engage with texts on war, conflict, climate change and social responsibility – topics that require critical thinking, analysis and open‑minded discussion.
This approach helps students develop:
- Resilience in tackling complex material
- Confidence in forming and debating opinions
- Deeper awareness of global issues
- Readiness for the demands of further education
These are the skills that empower West Buckland students to thrive – academically, personally and in the world beyond school.
Outstanding Examination Success
Last year was an outstanding one for English at West Buckland School, with our students outperforming national averages at every level.
Boys’ Achievement
- 51% achieved Grades 7–9
- National benchmark: 17%
- Three times the national performance
Girls’ Achievement
- 39% achieved Grades 7–9
- National benchmark: 22%
- Significantly above national averages
Overall Context
- 62% of students nationally achieved Grade 4+
- WBS students continue to exceed expectations by a wide margin
- Clear evidence of exceptional valueadded teaching
