English is a core subject which directly influences achievement in almost all other school subjects.

We aim to give pupils the skills required to enable them to use language confidently and clearly in a wide range of contexts. In addition, we aim to foster an appreciation of language and of the beauty and wisdom to be found in literature.

In KS3, the syllabus covers

• Speaking and listening skills
• Reading of novels, poetry and plays
• Writing with different purposes
• Media - film, advertising, newspapers
• Shakespeare
• Dickens

Most importantly, Hydesville has a strong reading culture. children are encouraged to read regularly and books are taken from the school library during English lessons.

In KS4, all pupils prepare for GCSE in both English and English Literature.

We have a lively Drama Club which meets weekly and performs plays twice a year. Recent productions have been "Bugsy Malone" in July 2008 and an abridged version of
"A Midsummer Night's Dream" in July 2009.

Theatre visits to Birmingham, Wolverhampton or Stratford are made regularly. Sometimes a touring theatre company performs at the school. In Year 10, pupils go to see the Globe Theatre in London and in year 11 they attend poetry workshops run by a professional company.

A GCSE grade C in English Language is a prerequisite for every sixth form and tertiary course. The study of Literature at GCSE is an excellent introduction to the study of humanity and ideas.
Those who go on to do ‘A' level English are well prepared for all University courses and careers in which language and communication are important, such as Journalism, Law, Teaching, Business Management, History, other languages, Psychology, Philosophy, Theology, Media and many others.