Through the study of English Language and Literature, pupils discover the pleasure and power of words. They learn how to create worlds, communicate ideas, persuade, enchant and surprise. These skills provide the bedrock for all subjects, allowing pupils to read, analyse and articulate their thoughts successfully. Shakespeare is taught in every year alongside literature from a wide variety of eras and countries. Pupils are encouraged to read widely and to discuss the ideas they find in fiction and non-fiction as well as poetry and drama.
All pupils in Senior III-V are prepared for National 5 and Higher, whilst Advanced Higher is available to Senior VI students.
There is a creative writing club for pupils in Senior I-III and theatre trips throughout the year. In Senior V pupils have the opportunity to visit the Globe in London and enjoy a tour, workshop and production.
The Elizabeth Earnshaw Memorial Prize for Creative Writing
Elizabeth Earnshaw (29/08/1973) was a talented former pupil of St Columba’s. She was tragically killed in a road accident in the spring of 1998, and we now run an annual creative writing competition in her memory with prizes for S1/2, S3/4 and S5/6.
Click here for more background information on Elizabeth Earnshaw.