English Dept

English at St Columb's College...

Members of the Department

• Brian McGilloway - Head of English (Acting)
• Donal Chambers
• Ryan Horner
• Patricia Hughes
• Ann-Louise Kirby
• Siobhan Tohill
• Cyril Maguire
• Tony McGonigle
• Edel McLaughlin
• Martin Meenan

(Some junior classes are also taught by Dr Suzanne Funnell and Mr Liam Burns.)

.Members of the English Department teach across the full range of the school. We follow a structured programme of study in Years 8 – 10 under the guidelines of the Revised Curriculum, that allows all pupils to read a range of prose, poetry and drama relevant to their age and experiences. Programmes at KS 3 are co-ordinated by Mrs Kirby (Yr8), Mr Chambers (Yr9) and Mr McGonigle (Yr 10). At Key Stage 4, our pupils study GCSE English Language (CCEA) and the majority, GCSE English Literature (CCEA/AQA). Post 16 students studying English Literature (CCEA) will engage with a selection of texts from Chaucer through to the Modern Novel.

The department incorporates ICT into each of its units and is responsible for the development of film making skills in pupils at KS3, In past years our pupils have scripted and filmed adverts for health products and their own versions of the Funeral Oration from Julius Caesar.

We encourage pupils to experience literature in all its forms, including visits out to screenings, performances and readings in the local area. Where possible we will provide opportunities in school for pupils to experience live theatre; last year, Say 2 Theatre Company performed Of Mice and Men to many of our Year 11 and 12 students under the auspices of the Extended Schools Programme. During our annual Reading Week, pupils have the opportunity to take master classes with visiting writers including, this year, the best selling thriller writer, John Connolly.

The Deprtament awards prizes for attainment in the subject at both GCSE and A Level. Last year we introduced the Paul Wilkins Memorial Prize for English Literature, in memory of Paul who was a member of the department for many years.

In the extra-curricular domain, members of the department are involved with the Media and Creative Writing clubs and the school show.

One of the main developments for the department this year is the introduction of the Accelerated reading Programme through the library whereby each student in Year 8 will have a personalised reading programme developed for him specific to his needs and reading ability..