English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.
In English, students learn about the study and use of the English language in its various textual forms. These encompass spoken, written and visual texts through which meaning is shaped, conveyed, interpreted and reflected. Complexity increases as students progress through their schooling.
Developing proficiency in English enables students to take their place as confident communicators; critical and imaginative thinkers; lifelong learners; and informed, active participants in Australian society. Their understanding of English through knowledge and skills acquisition is essential to their intellectual, social and emotional development.
The study of English should develop a love of literature and learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skills to enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, to become active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with each other and to reflect on their learning.
In Year 11 and 12, the study of English is mandatory. Courses offered include:
- English Extension 2
- English Extension 1
- English Advanced
- English Standard
- English Studies
- English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
- English Life Skills.
The English department at Sarah Redfern High School is a thriving, creative community. We are delighted to teach so many dramatic, technical and literary students who think "outside the square". We endeavour to stimulate and engage all our students in learning and the effective use of words, sounds and images to inspire, persuade, educate and entertain. We also believe that being able to communicate thoughts and feelings effectively to a wide range of audiences and for many different reasons is a form of empowerment. We aim to encourage students to use the technologies of the twenty first century in positive ways to build communities, strengthen relationships and to change the world if necessary.
At Sarah Redfern High School we have created challenging programs that are connected to real issues in the world, that also reveal to students the wisdom and knowledge contained in texts of the past. The assessment tasks in all stages are designed to build on the content learned in the units, but also allow students the freedom to create portfolios, films, visual displays and literary works of which they can feel very proud, and perhaps use as material for success in later career or academic paths. Some examples of this include Stage Five documentaries in the Persuasive unit, life changing speeches in the Justice unit, modern appropriations of famous artworks in the Transformation unit and play scripts in the Relationships unit.
Our junior programs combine studies in film, poetry, literature, advertising, social justice and the environment with drama, public speaking and debating. In Year Seven, all students are involved in a buddy letter writing program with a company of lawyers, which builds literacy and relationship skills. Our Senior programs offer a range of ATAR and Board Endorsed courses to suit every ability and career path, including English Studies and Extension English.
Sarah Redfern High School offers both support for students with learning needs and also extension and enrichment possibilities for those who are gifted and talented. There are selective classes in both years 7 and 8, and a streamed High Achieving class in Stage 5. The composite classes in Stage 5 offer a diverse program over two years, with Year 9 students benefitting greatly from the more sophisticated discussions and material.
The philosophy behind our teaching is empowering students to reach their potential in whatever field they choose, and equipping them with the flexibility, literacy, skills and empathy to make a difference in society and the wider world. At the same time we encourage students to feel proud of their origins and confident in their ability to succeed in an increasingly complex and changing global environment.