English at Ridgewood
At Ridgewood Community High School, English, communication and literacy are at the heart of our curriculum. English is taught as a discrete subject but is also embedded throughout all areas of learning, enabling pupils to develop the skills they need to communicate, understand the world around them and become increasingly independent.
Through high-quality texts, language-rich learning environments and carefully sequenced opportunities to develop knowledge and skills, pupils experience a creative, engaging and purposeful English curriculum.
We recognise that communication looks different for every learner. Pupils may communicate through spoken language, writing, signs, symbols, AAC or other personalised communication systems. Across the curriculum, they are encouraged to express themselves, make choices, develop vocabulary, understand others and communicate for a range of purposes.
Reading is promoted for both enjoyment and understanding, while writing and recording are taught in meaningful contexts. Pupils engage with a wide range of texts, stories and experiences which develop imagination, creativity, cultural awareness and understanding of the wider world.
Functional literacy is a key part of our curriculum. Learners are supported to develop the communication, reading and writing skills they need for everyday life, Preparation for Adulthood, further education and employment, enabling them to participate as confidently and independently as possible in life beyond school.
