Poetry
During November 2020, pupils from Year 1 to Year 8 were invited to take part in the ISA Poetry Competition using the title ‘Everything All at Once.’ Our English Department received many great pieces of poetry but overall selected the entry by Eve (Year 5) to represent the school in the national Independent Schools Association’s Poetry Competition 2020. The Head of the English Department, Ms Warner, chose Eve’s poem because, “There is simplicity and charm throughout Eve’s piece of writing and she cleverly used rhyme to engage her readers’ attention which made it a very compelling read. Well done Eve!” 

Debating 
In Year 7 and Year 8, English lessons have focused on debating. One of our debates has included 'Should Schools be Open during Lockdown?' The pupils have been exploring what makes for a successful debate and learning about persuasive speaking, critical listening, analytical thinking and becoming more engaged as citizens. Most recently, the children have learnt that excellent listening is just as valuable as speaking. This links well with one of our Core Values of Respect and we look forward to the children working together in groups and delivering their speeches in their forthcoming lessons.