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In the study of English, we delve into literary classics as well as modern texts, and explore narratives from different periods and places and from a range of perspectives and genres. Our goal is to develop our students’ literacy to aid them in every area of life.
English is considered a critical subject, and all students at the college take English until the end of Year 12; in Year 13 it is an optional subject. Reading is highly valued and emphasised in all five years of study.
In Years 9 and 10, the courses integrate the study of language accuracy with the study of literature, and this includes Shakespeare, novels, short stories and poetry. Students are taught to write accurately, both in creative and literary writing.
In the senior school, the Year 11 English students engage in the close reading of a Shakespeare play and New Zealand poetry, and also tackle a senior novel. In the final two years, students study a range of more challenging plays, novels, short texts and films. An important focus is analytical academic writing. In Year 13, students may choose between a Novel or a Literature programme. Complex and interesting texts are explored in every course.
Extension English is offered at all levels, culminating in the Scholarship classes in Year 13. English for Literacy courses are also offered to help students who struggle with English.
Media Studies is available to students from Year 11 to 13, and Scholarship is also offered. Media Studies is a growing field, and one that critically examines the phenomenon of the mass media which plays such a critical role in our society. The courses focus on the visual media of film and television, and there is a very popular practical element at each year level.
