English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.
Students learn about the English language through written, spoken and visual texts of increasing complexity as they progress through their schooling.
An understanding of the English language is central to how we communicate and essential for intellectual, social and emotional development.
The study of English should develop a love of literature and learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skills to enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, to become active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with each other and to reflect on their learning.
In 2023, a new English syllabus was implemented for Years K to 2. The content areas covered are:
Oral language and communication, vocabulary, phonological awareness, print conventions, phonic knowledge, reading fluency, reading comprehension, creating written texts, spelling, handwriting and understanding and responding to literature.
In Years 3 to 6 the new English syllabus is in its first year of the implementation phase in 2024. The content areas addressed are:
Oral language and communication, vocabulary, reading fluency, reading comprehension, creating written texts, spelling, handwriting and digital transcription and understanding and responding to literature.