English

The English program at Belconnen High School engages students in the study of classic and contemporary texts.  Students are encouraged to read and respond to texts through discussions, oral presentations, written compositions, and creative visual pieces.  Emphasis is placed on exploring human experiences, developing understanding and empathy, as well as proficiency in the use of text types (stories, poetry, essays, and so on), grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

The English courses are streamed.  The Pinnacle Enrichment Program (PEP) and Level 1 classes cater for students with a high aptitude for English.  Level 2, Level 3, and the mainstream classes in Year 7, cater for students who need additional scaffolding and support to develop their literacy skills.

English as a Second Language (ESL) is also delivered via mainstream teaching and through resource classes.

Extra-curricular programs include:

• Inter-class debating
• Wide Reading Extension Program
• Chief Minister's Reading Challenge
• University of NSW English Competition
• MS Readathon
• Ashton Scholastic Book Club
• Book Week celebrations
• Visiting authors
• Shakespeare Festival
• Excursions