English-Related Activities

Students at Ratcliffe are given the opportunity to take part in a range of English related extra- curricular activities.  Regular theatre trips and drama play a significant part in the life of the English Department, and students are also given the chance to experience a variety of workshops given by outside speakers and groups. Students who do not wish to be on the stage are encouraged to get involved with the technical side of theatre, by helping with lighting, make-up or sound.

Debating is offered as an activity and, for those who are interested in Public Speaking, there are various external competitions, which the school is invited to enter. The English Department is always looking for willing participants.

Students from Years 7 to 9 are invited to attend a weekly Book Club where they can take part in regular competitions and quizzes, lucky dips and treasure hunts. 

Budding writers are very welcome to join the student newspaper ‘Hello Ratcliffe’.  This is published online once a term, and is written by the students, for the students.  The editorial team meet weekly to discuss potential articles, take part in the editing process, or research new stories. 

New this year is the Sixth Form and Staff Lunch Club.  This is an informal gathering of Year 12 and 13 students and staff who meet and discuss set books over lunch.  So far this year, the group have read ‘The Reader’ by Bernhard Schlink, ‘, ‘Jaws’ by Steven Benchley and ‘Notes on a Scandal’ by Zoe Heller, among others.