Students demonstrating our values of respect, hard work and ambition, during a Literature Masterclass in February 2025

Professor Hailie Hughes - Writing a conceptualised response and a thesis

KS4 Literature Masterclasses – An Inspector Calls ( Published: 14/02/2025)

To enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of their GCSE text, An Inspector Calls by J. B. Priestley, they were involved in a university-style lecture delivered by Professor Haili Hughes (an examiner, a professor and an author).

On Thursday 13th February 2025, students in Year 10 and Year 11 attended a Literature Masterclass. Professor Hughes is an expert in her field and shared tips on how to approach the GCSE question on An Inspector Calls. Students were encouraged to consider the writer’s key messages and the political implications of the text. Understanding the challenging concept of ‘authorial intent’ will be crucial to students aiming for the top GCSE grades.

Recently, Year 11 students visited the Lowry Theatre to watch a professional performance of the play, so this was a valuable opportunity for them to extend their knowledge even further.

I found the content really clear and useful. I know exactly how to start my essay in my exam now.
Kingsford, Year 11

It was so lovely to see students eager to learn and ask questions. Students were also proud to share their academic and critical responses.
Miss Neukom

Professor Haili Hughes’ talk on An Inspector Calls was not only enlightening but also inspiring, igniting a passion for literature and critical thinking among our students.
Mrs Gorey

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