Year 9 enjoy 'Dickens Day' workshops as part of their Academic Curriculum Enrichment Day

After the success of last year's 'Dickens Day', the English Department once again ran a workshop on 'Great Expectations' for students in Year 9 as part of Academic Curriculum Enrichment Day. The girls enjoyed the chance to learn more about the famous writer's work and the background to some of his most memorable characters. Working in groups the girls undertook some contextual research before exploring the plot of 'Great Expectations' and its key themes. They were then treated to a viewing (complete with popcorn!) of Mike Newell's stunning film adaptation of the novel, which included standout performances from Helena Bonham Carter as Miss Havisham and Holliday Grainger as Estella. In the afternoon the girls worked together on a creative project, with each group focusing on one character from the story. There were some fantastically imaginative and original responses, including costume design; filmed versions of 'extra' scenes; a guest appearance for Miss Havisham on a chat show and a retelling of Estella's story! The girls were really enthused and were left in no doubt that Dickens is an exciting writer who still has much to say to us today.