English is largely about developing the skills to communicate with confidence and enjoyment at all levels. In all English classes there is strong emphasis on active pupil participation, the practical application of language and the enjoyment of all types of literature. Group work is very popular and oral activities including discussion, role-play and drama form a significant part of our activities. Writing, both fiction and non-fiction, for real audiences is encouraged. Our pupils regularly have poems published in anthologies such as Poetry in Motion and Young Writers, as well as in M.C.B., the College magazine. Junior pupils have produced books to help teach English to children in Romania and Rwanda. We participate in initiatives such as the Belfast Telegraph’s ‘Well-Read’ project and have enjoyed success in the ‘Live News Day’, where pupils develop journalism skills and produce their own newspaper. STAFF Dr H D Collier MA Head of Faculty | | | | Mr M A Cinnamond BA | Miss H A Glenn BA | Mrs F Monaghan BA | Miss C Hall BA | Mrs A E Dinsmore MA | Mrs J M Conlon BA | Dr S M Wilkinson BA | Miss S Rountree BA | Mrs B Davey BA | *Mrs P M Ferguson B. Ed. MA | Mr S Dillon BA | *Mrs J McKenna | Ms M Hunter BA | *Mrs E Peters BA | | | *indicates part-time teachers |
FACILITIES AND RESOURCES In our well-equipped specialist rooms we make extensive use of the latest audiovisual and computer facilities. We build on pupils’ ICT skills in areas such as word-processing, desktop publishing and Power Point. Research skills are developed from Form 1, with pupils producing projects on a variety of relevant topics. We have well-stocked school and classroom libraries, which help us to emphasise reading for enjoyment. Participation in sponsored reads like Readathon and Read-On motivates pupils, promotes reading and raises money for charity. EDUCATIONAL TRIPS AND EXCHANGES We take English out of the classroom whenever possible. All pupils have opportunities to visit the theatre and cinema, take part in competitions and meet established writers. Junior pupils enjoyed a visit from leading author Alan Gibbons, and some lucky pupils had the chance to meet Anthony Horowitz. The annual Sheila Smyth lecture for senior pupils is always given by a major Irish writer. For example, we have welcomed Jennifer Johnston, Bernard MacLaverty and Colm Toibín. EXTRA CURRICULAR There is an extensive range of English-related extra-curricular activities, such as the Hewitt Society (named after Methody alumnus, poet John Hewitt), junior and senior debating societies and junior, middle and senior drama. An informal creative writing workshop is a popular choice in sixth form. |
