KS4 English

The Importance of English in Our STEM Curriculum

At UTC Leeds, English is a vital part of our employer-led STEM curriculum. Strong communication skills are essential in STEM careers, enabling students to articulate ideas clearly, collaborate effectively, and produce high-quality reports and presentations. English is embedded in a cross-curricular plan that supports both mastery and confidence across all subjects.

Central to our approach are student non-negotiables—essential skills that every student must master. These include accurate written communication, critical thinking, and analytical reading. Carefully sequenced throughout the curriculum, these core skills underpin the teaching of English and are reinforced across other subject areas, ensuring consistency and coherence in learning.

English Curriculum

Here at UTC Leeds, KS4 students will be taught two different (but related) subjects in English:

• GCSE English Language (AQA exam board)
• GCSE English Literature (AQA exam board)

In year 10, students have a total of five English lessons per week, plus a reading lesson.

In year 11, students have a total of six English lessons per week.

Here is the sequence of topics students will be taught across the two years at UTC Leeds: