English

In the English Department, we create a friendly yet disciplined atmosphere in which pupils can debate issues, collaborate on group projects and present dramatic presentations of their texts. We are dedicated to the development of the language skills students require, both for success in examinations, and success in life. Our students have the opportunity to study both classical and contemporary texts, covering the genres: fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama.

During Years 7, 8 and 9 students read widely, learn to write in a variety of forms and develop their oral skills.  Private reading is promoted at all times and pupils are actively encouraged to borrow from the fiction section of the Library. Later, pupils study for GCSEs in English Language and Literature, many choosing English as an option at A-level.

Readathon and poetry competitions are popular ways to encourage everyone to make the most of their talents.



Hot Off The Press
If you had popped into the Senior School Library yesterday, you could be forgiven for thinking you had arrived in Fleet Street. Years 7, 8 and 9 threw off their pupil status and became reporters. Swiftly becoming "old hacks" they kept many members of staff on their toes with their searching interviews and research.

At amazing speed, fascinating articles on State v Independent Education, The American Presidency, The Credit Crunch, Youth Crime and Animal Cruelty were put together.






English Speaking Union
Last Wednesday, Beechwood took part in the first round of the English Speaking Union. Our competitors were Bennett Memorial, giving a controversial speech on whether mankind needs religion, and TWGGS who spoke about reducing air travel.

Representing Beechwood were Dilys Opoku as Chair Person, Reem Al-Ajeel as Questioner and Bella Copleston as Speaker. Dilys and Reem were joined by the TWGGs speaker and Reem put forward many relevant and strong questions. Bella joined the Bennett team and gave a very strong speech on "Elitism is inevitable and desirable".

In a tight competition, TWGGs came in 1st place overall with Beechwood 2nd.
Rebekah Rampe



Global Warming
Last Tuesday, the Year 11 English class were fortunate enough to have Anthony Hobley, an Environmental Lawyer, to give them an insight into the effects of global warming in preparation for their English GCSE this Summer. 

Mr Hobley gave a very interesting power point presentation on the dangers our world is facing environmentally, and we were given the opportunity to ask him his thoughts and views about what should be done on the matter.  It was hugely beneficial for all. Thank you to Mrs Warburton for organising the lecture.

"In the battle of the sexes, man will always win"

This statement was proposed by Bella  as she battled her way through the first round of the ESU public speaking competition, alongside Toni who was Chairperson and Danielle, the Questioner of the team. The judges concluded that the standard of this year's competition was the highest that they had ever adjudicated, and this was certainly true of Beechwood's team. 

Toni was outstanding considering she only stepped in last week and Danielle asked the speaker from Bennett School some highly challenging questions which really set the standard for the next team. Bella delivered her speech immaculately and was really tackled by the questioner from Sevenoaks School; however she captivated the audience and the adjudicating panel and was presented with the prize for "outstanding speaker" of the competition being awarded full marks, a score which the judges have never awarded before.

Beechwood came second in the competition, which unfortunately means that they will not be going through to the next round, but they were only four points behind the winners from Sevenoaks School. Congratulations to the girls for all their hard work, determination and team practice! Thanks also to Maria our team coach.

National Poetry Day

On Thursday lunchtime, a large group of students and teachers gathered in the Library to listen to poetry. This was in celebration of National Poetry Day. Our half hour of exploration of poetry was lead by Bob Spencer, a published poet from Tunbridge Wells.  He gave us tips on how to write our own poems and told us of how he came to write his own.

Teachers and students all participated, even Mr Beesley who read a poem by Wilfred Owen. We were also lucky to hear Mrs Clark's own creation entitled "Front Room Grandma".

It was a highly inspirational experience showing us a large variety of poetry, we thank everyone involved especially Mrs Clark who organised the whole event.
Sophie Edwards, Toni Warr & Bella Copleston





Magical Midsummer Mayhem in the Woods
On Monday, Year 6 and Year 7 went to see a hit musical theatre adaptation of a Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream at the Assembly Hall. 
They all enjoyed the performance and were particularly impressed by Puck who was really funny, especially when he made fun of his master.  The last part of the play was hilarious with the audience shrieking with laughter.

Readathon
In March, Year 7 took part in the Readathon.  "We read as many books as we could and were sponsored for doing so.  The money we raised went to two different charities, The Roald Dahl Foundation and a charity for children with cancer.  The amount of books we read was 128 in total .  All of this hard work helped us to raise a fantastic £501.20.  All Year 7 would like to say a huge thank you to all the sponsors and all the teachers who helped."