English
What is English about?
English equips students with knowledge of the codes and conventions of literacy, language and a range of texts. As students develop their understanding, they can fully interact with texts, and grow in confidence when it comes to producing their own meaning for diverse audiences and purposes. Through reading, writing, speaking, and viewing, students engage with a full spectrum of texts and perspectives.
Why study English?
Studying English builds essential skills for life. It strengthens literacy, deepens thinking, and empowers students to communicate effectively in a variety of contexts. Texts and information are something all students will be exposed to both now and as they move into adulthood, and their ability to engage with ideas and messages, and to think critically about them, can be a huge influence on wellbeing, professional opportunities, interactions with others, and social participation.
Literacy in English is critical for students to be able to engage successfully with all curriculum learning areas. Practice and exposure to analysis and argument will help students move beyond a foundational level in a number of curriculum areas, and give them confidence to take control of their learning, forming their own views and opinions.
By exploring literature from New Zealand and around the world, students develop a stronger sense of identity, cultural awareness, and appreciation for diverse voices. English helps them find their own voice - and use it with confidence.
English
English at Takapuna Grammar School develops theoretical and practical habits that will be crucial for students both now and in the years ahead. Students engage with a wide range of texts and perspectives, from classic literature to contemporary media. They develop skills to think critically and write with confidence and precision.
Through oral, written, and visual language, students learn to express themselves clearly and persuasively. English is a core subject at all NCEA levels and is essential for success across the curriculum and future pathways.
English Internal
English Internal offers a supportive, hands-on approach to developing communication skills. Designed for students who benefit from a more practical learning style, this course focuses on internally assessed standards that build confidence in reading, writing, and speaking.
Students explore a variety of challenging texts and tasks tailored to their learning needs, while working toward NCEA literacy requirements. It’s a flexible course that helps students grow as effective communicators in everyday and academic contexts.
Media Studies
Media Studies provides students with the skills and tools to demonstrate creativity and critical analysis. Students explore how media products - from film and television to social platforms, news and advertising - shape the way we see the world. Students learn to analyse media texts to understand how meaning is constructed, and reality is packaged into marketable narratives. Students also create their own media using industry-standard tools.
At Takapuna Grammar School, Media Studies encourages students to be both thoughtful consumers and innovative creators. It’s a future-focused subject that builds visual literacy, storytelling skills, and digital fluency - essential for careers in communication, design, journalism, and beyond.
