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At Rangitoto College, the study of English invites students to explore both literary classics and contemporary texts. Through narratives from diverse periods, places, perspectives, and genres, students develop literacy skills that support success across all areas of life.
English is a core subject studied by all students until the end of Year 12, with Year 13 offered as an optional course. Reading is highly valued and consistently emphasised throughout all five years of study.
In Years 9 and 10, students engage in a balanced programme that integrates language accuracy with literary analysis. They study Shakespeare, novels, short stories, and poetry, while learning to write with precision in both creative and analytical forms.
In the senior school, Year 11 students undertake close reading of a Shakespeare play, New Zealand poetry, and a senior-level novel. In Years 12 and 13, students explore more complex texts—including plays, novels, short texts, and films—with a strong focus on analytical academic writing. Year 13 students engage with a wide range of text types, celebrating the diversity and richness of literature.
Extension English is available at all levels, culminating in Scholarship classes in Year 13. For students needing additional support, English for Literacy courses are offered to strengthen foundational skills.
Media Studies is available from Year 11 to Year 13, with Scholarship also offered. As a rapidly growing field, Media Studies critically examines the role of mass media in society. Courses focus on visual media—particularly film and television—and include a popular practical component at each year level.
