English at S. Anselm's is designed to stimulate the children's imaginations, develop a wide range of written and oral skills, and foster the reading habit and a love of literature.
We lay a firm foundation, concentrating on comprehension and appreciation, and on fluent writing sustained by a wide vocabulary, sound spelling and efficient punctuation. In junior forms (Pre-prep, Prep Year 3 and 4) we follow the National Curriculum. From Year 5 we use our own comprehensive work schemes that take pupils through to either 13+ Common Entrance or an independent Senior School scholarship. Grades in these leaving exams have been consistently high. We take pride in helping every pupil to achieve his or her full potential. Our flexible streaming policy helps both the gifted and the average child to succeed, and we work closely with our strong Learning Support department. Regardless of ability, all children are encouraged to develop their creative side, both inside and outside formal lessons.
While traditional aspects of English such as handwriting and letter writing continue to be important, the English department values word processing and other ICT skills, including use of the internet, and we make judicious use of audio and audio-visual resources. We feel, however, that no electronic aids can be a substitute for the knowledge, enthusiasm and flair of the individual English teacher or for the authority of the printed word. Reading remains the corner stone of the subject and our best resource is the airy, well stocked school library. There is a daily reading period after lunch, and children also read in their free time and during the holidays.
Major dramatic productions now fall under the aegis of the Drama department, but we strongly promote the spoken word. Clear, articulate speech is encouraged and the English department plays its full part in developing children's interview skills. Many children enter for LAMDA exams, and our annual Senior and Junior Reading Competitions, held before a large audience and judged by a Senior School head of English, are a highlight of the school year.