The English Department saw pleasing results again this year at both GCSE and A Level. Particular congratulations must go to Jamie Ivory, whose A grade and lively enthusiasm for the subject takes him on to further his studies of English Literature at University. An excellent take up of Literature students at AS promises another successful year ahead. A regulation visit from the WJEC Speaking and Listening coursework moderator went very well indeed and he was most impressed by the confident way our students express themselves (though I think the chocolate biscuits the hospitality service provided didn’t do any harm either!)

Developing the students’ appreciation and enjoyment of the theatre, and the benefits it can have on their understanding of literature, is an important feature of the English Department’s ethos. Mrs Brinded and Mr Barrett led another, and now regular, tour of the Globe experience, with exciting and useful workshops on “Romeo and Juliet”, whilst Mrs Cassim and Mrs Pepperdine took their Yr 9 to see the dramatic “Othello”. Yr 13 also found “The Phantom of the Opera”; with its suitably Gothic music and lyrics a useful addition to their experience of this genre! The English Department continue to run the very popular Theatre Society, with an eclectic but thoroughly entertaining choice of shows.

As the Department moves forward successfully, we must offer our gratitude to two members of staff who contributed so much but are now off new exciting, experiences in well-deserved retirements: Dr James Cunningham and Mr Colin Barrett.

Always professional and supportive to his Department, Jim Cunningham was also voted “The Most Respected Teacher” by the 6th Form. Colin Barrett also gave a great deal of time and commitment to his students, fostering both a confidence in, and love of, English, through his many subject-related extra-curricular activities: the English club, the Voice student magazine, the many theatre trips, the Sponsored poetry recitals and the popular poetry competitions which generated such wonderful displays around the school. It’s good to think his tuneful whistling will still be heard echoing around Oxford House, as he does his weekend duties. We would like to thank both Jim and Colin for their hard work and contributions to the success of the English Department.

We welcome Ms Cathi Allison as our Head of Department; her experience and enthusiasm promises a new, happy and exciting phase for the English Department.