Our faculty is committed to nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills in every learner. We strive to make learning meaningful, accessible, and enjoyable, supporting all students to achieve success in the Senior Phase and beyond.

English in S1 – S3

In S1 – 3, learning and teaching is focused on the development of skill and confidence in Reading, Writing, Talking, and Listening. We aim to provide inclusive, relevant, engaging and varied learning experiences to nurture confidence and creativity and inspire a lifelong love of language and literacy. We plan experiences which encourage learners to:

• extend and enrich their vocabulary through listening, talking, writing and reading,
• engage with a wide range of texts in a range of genres, exploring how writers use language in different media to engage, persuade and entertain readers,
• explore the richness and diversity of language, how it can affect them, and the wide range of ways in which they and others can be creative,
• communicate, collaborate and build relationships,
• reflect on and explain their literacy and thinking skills, using feedback to help them improve and sensitively provide useful feedback for others,
• identify resources and strategies which will help them read, write, talk and listen across the curriculum,
• use their writing and talking skills to debate issues, create new texts and tell their own stories.

Assessment in the Broad General Education

In S1-3, evidence of the skills a pupil is developing in Reading, Writing, Talking and Listening is gathered from a range of sources, including day to day learning, coursework, observations, periodic holistic assessments, and information from standardised assessments. This evidence helps to inform the teacher judgement of the progress towards, and achievement of a level. The following assessment opportunities will be provided across each year:

• Listening and Talking – group discussion, individual or group presentation
• Reading – close reading of a short, unseen text, and critical reading of a text which has been discussed in class
• Writing – at least two extended pieces of writing, showing the ability to write create different kinds of text.

Senior Phase

For senior students, we offer a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum tailored to a range of interests and abilities. Our courses are designed to foster advanced critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills, with pathways that range from foundational literacy to in-depth analysis of literature, media, and journalism.

Level 4 Courses

National 4 English

• Develop essential reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
• Assessment: Classwork and unit assessments; no final exam.

Level 5 Courses

National 5 English (Level 5)

• Study literature, improve analysis, and enhance writing skills.
• Assessment: RUAE and Critical Reading exams; Portfolio submission, Performing Spoken Language.

National 5 Media

• Learn media analysis and production fundamentals.
• Assessment: Media production assignment; external exam.

ESOL

• Qualification in English for speakers of other languages, at N4 or N5 level.
• Assessment: internal assessments, external exam

Level 6 Courses

Literature 1 and Communications

• Develop Deepen analytical, writing and communication skills through advanced study of texts, but without the pressure of a final exam.
• Assessment: internal assessments in Reading, Writing, Talking and Listening.

Higher English

• Deepen analytical and writing skills through advanced study of texts.
• Assessment: RUAE and Critical Reading exams; Portfolio submission, Performing Spoken Language

Higher Media

• Explore advanced media texts, contexts, and production skills.
• Assessment: Media project and external exam.

NPA Journalism

Gain real-world skills in feature writing, research and interviewing, photography and Web Design.

• Assessment: Classwork and unit assessments; no final exam.
• Resources: BBC Academy Journalism

Level 7 Courses

Advanced Higher English (Level 7)

• Engage in independent literary research and creative projects.
• Assessment: Exam, dissertation, and writing portfolio.

• Mr S Boyd, English
• Mr D Forrest, English
• Mrs M Gardner, English
• Mrs J Henderson, English
• Mr H Hoyles,  English
• Mrs D Johnston, English
• Ms D McDougall, English
• Ms L Ruxton, English
• Mrs V Sinclair, English
• Ms M Wards, English
• Ms R Wells, English

Studying English at National 4, National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher levels opens doors to a diverse range of career paths that value strong communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Many students go on to pursue careers in education, becoming teachers, lecturers, or academic researchers. Others find opportunities in publishing, editing, or content writing, using their language skills to shape literature, marketing materials, or digital media. English is also highly valued in law, where strong reasoning and persuasive writing are essential, and in fields like public relations, advertising, and corporate communications, where effective messaging is crucial.

Media Studies and Journalism offer exciting pathways into the fast-paced world of storytelling and communication. Graduates can become journalists, reporters, or editors, working in print, digital, or broadcast media. The analytical and creative skills gained can also lead to careers in filmmaking, television production, and social media management. Many professionals in marketing and advertising benefit from a foundation in media studies, using insights into audience engagement and visual storytelling to craft compelling campaigns. Whether shaping public discourse, investigating important issues, or producing engaging content, these subjects provide students with the tools to thrive in a constantly evolving media landscape.

English, Media Studies, and Journalism are not just for those pursuing university degrees—they also provide essential skills that can lead to college courses, apprenticeships, and practical career pathways. Strong communication and literacy skills are highly valued in vocational fields, from business and retail to customer service and technical roles. Many colleges offer courses in areas like digital marketing, film production, and content creation, where understanding storytelling and media can be a huge advantage. Apprenticeships in sectors such as broadcasting, publishing, and public relations allow students to gain hands-on experience while earning qualifications tailored to their chosen industry.

For students who prefer practical learning over traditional exams, these subjects can help develop confidence in speaking, writing, and problem-solving—skills that are crucial in careers such as event management, hospitality, journalism, and creative media. Many employers seek individuals who can express ideas clearly, work as part of a team, and understand how to engage audiences, making English and media-related qualifications valuable across many industries. Whether progressing into college, apprenticeships, or directly into the workforce, these subjects provide a foundation for success in a range of career paths.