Since pupils arrive at Christ College at very different ages and levels of ability a fixed syllabus is inappropriate but course content is guided by these principles:

i) Pupils entering the first and second years with a reasonable level of English should be encouraged to join mainstream English classes as soon as possible, leading to GCSE in Form 5. For most however the acquisition of language survival skills in the first term, followed by a grounding in basic grammar and communicative skills over the rest of the first two years, is the major element of the course. There is also normally a considerable input of subject support.

ii) Pupils entering in the third year or fourth year should aim to sit the IGCSE examination by the Fifth Form or sooner. A structured course is followed which emphasises writing skills and vocabulary acquisition. Time is also allocated for subject support, particularly with GCSE coursework.

iii) Sixth Formers with fluent English should take the IELTS test in the Lower Sixth year, after which they should require no further input unless they request subject-specific support. In the first term students study a variety of topical texts to develop their awareness of different registers of English. In the second term the emphasis moves to exam skills. especially writing. The IELTS test is taken at the end of term.

iv) Less fluent Sixth Form entrants should take IGCSE in the Lower Sixth and, if required, IELTS in the Upper Sixth. There may also be a need for subject support for some pupils.