English is one of the biggest departments in College, with large numbers opting to study it for A level, and afterwards for degree. Our aim is to foster a passion for language and literature through lively and engaging teaching, and a willingness to nurture individual interests and enthusiasms.

It is a thriving and busy environment that contains a wide variety of interests and experience. In addition to all our work inside the classroom, we also organise regular theatre trips, whether it be locally in Cheltenham, or further afield in London, Stratford, Malvern or Bristol. We take great advantage of the Cheltenham Literature Festival, as well as having authors and journalists come and talk and share their experiences. There are extra extension classes for those who wish to broaden and deepen their literary understanding, as well as Debating and Public Speaking activities and teams.

Tim Brewis, Head of English and Drama

Recent Events

Cheltenham Literature Festival
With one of the nation's most exciting and diverse literary festivals coming to Cheltenham, College pupils once again capitalised on the Festival's highlights, literary celebrities and bookish charm. On Friday 7th October the English Department took pupils to see David Lodge and John Sutherland's 'What makes a great literary character?' which was enjoyed by a large number of Upper and Lower Sixth pupils. Later on that evening, pupils appeared once again to hear captivating and inspiring talks on Edward Thomas and Postmodernism, although not at the same time!

Debating Society visit to The Council Chambers, 7th November 2011
Pupils will participate in a mock-council debate hosted by the Mayor. We will be debating the following motion: This house believes that there should be stronger penalties for young people who break the law.

The Lower College Book Group event TBC
The appropriately named Lower College Book Group, "The Chinklings" with the help of Mrs Ginette Doyle, College Librarian, are pleased to host a visit from the author Kevin Wignall author of "The Mercian Trilogy" to discuss his new, soon-to-be-published book "Blood". We will discuss being an author, getting into writing and give him feedback on his new work.

Lower College Book Club
A lovely opportunity to meet and discuss books, writing and poetry in a friendly and informal environment…with crumpets!
The club meets a couple of times every half term in the evening and enjoys a range of activities:

• Sharing our favourite books
• Reading the same book and discuss it
• Reading some poetry
• Writing and sharing our writing
• Making book trailers
• Entering competitions

A Frightening Experience
- Ludo Millar (Boyne House, 4th)

Descriptive Writing
- Georgie O'Reilly (Chandos, 4th)

Poetry Creative Workshop Winner
- Clemmie Hickman (Chandos, Lower 6th)