How does Citizenship find a place in an English classroom?

Just as every chapter of life brings new challenges, so every chapter of a novel brings new discoveries.

This is why the study of English in secondary schools encompasses the study of society and how to function successfully within it. The alternate worlds in novels, plays and poems provide a safe platform for students to understand new ideas, develop their opinions and empathise with others in particular situations. The great variety of plots, characters and backdrops in literature affords the student a far wider range of experience than real life can offer them.

Furthermore, the high levels of discussion and debate within the English curriculum are a necessary tool in Citizenship, provoking understanding and argument, empathy and indignation. Only when students engage with a topic in this way, will they fully understand its importance to themselves and ramifications for others. This is as true in discussions about fiction as it is in political or moral debate.

It is often said that ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’; this is a belief that every English teacher strives to instil in their students. Writing is an empowering experience and is the hallmark of a civilised society. Citizenship provides a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the power of writing to individuals who want to foster change. It also gives students access to the language and techniques they will find useful as future citizens.

English teachers exist to ensure the literacy of their students, but there is more to literacy than simply being able to read and write. In affiliation with Citizenship, we can ensure a politically, emotionally and socially literate society in future generations.

Our grateful thanks to Cassandra Higley, Sabiha Patel and Lynda Hughes for their hard work in producing these lessons.