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.
About the faculty
The English faculty at Westfields Sports High School is a mixture of youth and experience. Within its eighteen members there is a wide range of teaching experience that allows for a diverse approach to the teaching of English.
The English faculty also organises and runs the school's highly successful debating teams, as well as Westfields' involvement in various public speaking and writing competitions. Students are encouraged to participate in these extra-curricular activities as a means of developing their communication and social skills, as well as bolstering their confidence as members of the community. English teachers also enjoy these opportunities to build a greater rapport with their students away from the usual classroom setting.
Our teachers are involved in a wide range of whole school activities, including mentoring new scheme teachers, supporting library staff, pastoral care of particular year groups and tutoring students through the Norta Norta program.
The English faculty fully complies with the department and NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) regarding a holistic approach to the teaching of English in the junior and senior schools: that we as teachers move away from teaching just one text type and instead teach integrated, outcomes-driven units, which include picture books, film, television, radio, computer technology, poetry, literature, language and spoken-word texts, and give students a wide experience of texts, values and skills. It is important to develop meaningful and varied tasks and activities which challenge and develop students' English abilities, and to reward effort through Westfields' welfare policy.
Faculty
Mr R. McKeough (Acting Deputy Principal)
Ms J. Jones (Relieving Head Teacher)
Ms D. Poulos (Relieving Head Teacher 2IC)
Ms R. Awad
Ms K. Lee
Ms F. Abousaleh
Ms L. Alexakis
Ms J. Carruthers
Ms E. Barnett
Mr M. Butler
Ms D. Berios
Ms R. Farnon
Ms S. Goundar
Ms. T. Hili
Ms A. Kendirjian
Ms N. Koski
Mr A. Lambkin
Ms A. Tran
Ms O. Warda