Faculty News

English Faculty

Supporting students to think imaginatively through giving them opportunities to be creative is fundamental to the study of English. Imaginative writing invites students to be innovative and to immerse themselves into a mindset of possibility. These skills are becoming even more essential as we face a world of change and uncertainty. This year, as part of Mazenod’s Literature Festival, we celebrate a range of students’ work inspired by the theme, “Imagine If”. Well done to Aydan, whose writing is featured below, for bringing sentience to a humble wall!

The Wall - Aydan Edward • Year 8

Deep within the grounds of a decommissioned park, a single wall stood, separating the outside world from the deteriorating environment within. The Wall was partly shrouded by a drapery of creeper vines, rooted deep within its many cracks and crevices. Faded red bricks overlooked the wild weeds that now dominated the wide, grassy landscape. Since well before the park was erected, the Wall had been standing proud, protecting the grounds with its clay body. Often, the grounds would be dotted with creatures, clothed in flesh and cloth. They fascinated the wall and since it had only ever seen them here, the Wall decided to name them the People of the Park. Having little else to do, the Wall took interest in the people. Their ways were foreign yet complex, fascinating the Wall who watched them intently.

As time passed, the Wall became accustomed to all manner of people; young and old, tall and short. To the Wall, they were no different to anyone else, but what truly interested the Wall was those who were angry. The Wall did not understand this feeling entirely, but it often perceived fear and pain, paired with the anger; feelings it did understand. When these people visited the park, they visibly changed; it was as if something had changed within them. The people gradually shed their dejected attitude and downcast faces, exchanging them for a happier expression filled with purpose and light. The Wall enjoyed seeing this change in the people because it brought hope to it; hope for a brighter future.

Now, only the crows dare venture the grounds of the park, wild and overrun by plant growth. With all the people gone from sight, now only the wooden merry-go-round horses stay to keep the Wall company. Their unmoving smiles silently mocking the Wall. The Wall did not understand why the People left or why it was alone. All the same, without legs to find them, the Wall could only do one thing; wait. It had faith that they would return one day but until then, it would be watching.

Ms Clare Caldwell

English Coordinator (Year 10-12)

Mr Jed Harrington

English Coordinator (Year 7-9)