English at Key Stage 2 (7-11) KS2 is when we develop the basic skills already learnt at KS1. The children are introduced to authors as diverse as Kipling and Shakespeare, Michael Morpurgo and Philip Pullman. We study a broad range of Language and writing as well as working towards Common Entrance at 11+ and the National Key Stage Tests. The pupils are then well prepared to continue on to Key Stage 3.

English at Key Stage 3 (11-14) Our children are taught how to communicate formally and informally, with clarity of expression, in both written and spoken form. They learn to question and analyse all sorts of texts. In Literature, we delve into a diverse assortment of authors: Westall; Pulman; Fine; Shakespeare; Lawrence; Larkin; McGough; Milligan; Lear; Kafka; Owen; Sassoon; Tennyson and Nash - to name but a few. The students are thoroughly prepared for their Common Entrance and Public School Scholarship examinations and have fun on the way!

French at Key Stage 2 & 3 (7-13) French forms part of the curriculum from Year 3 onwards. Many of our pupils have joined their Senior Schools with the benefit of a French Scholarship, progressing successfully to A Level French and beyond. French conversation and grammar, songs and Christmas Carols, the French Café on Open Days, Eastbourne College French Video Competitions where our children won first second and first prizes in 2002 to 2004 respectivaly, all make French an exciting language to learn.

Latin at Key Stage 2 & 3 (9-13) Latin is introduced from Year 5 onwards. Although not all continue to Common Entrance, a basic study of the language, ably abetted by Minimus (“the mouse that made Latin Cool!”- a very enjoyable scheme), benefits pupils in their English and Modern Language studies both at Skippers Hill and in their future schools.