Let's Talk English
Let's talk about why we love it.
Let's talk about why it matters.Ìý
At its best, English unlocks knowledge, nurtures empathy and values diverse voices. But this vital subject is being challenged by pressures like never before – and it’s time for change.Ìý
It’s time for us to revive English and make it the engaging, innovative and inclusive subject it truly can be.
So let’s talk English…
Secondary teachers on GCSE English...
Does the current subject content for GCSE English give schools and students what they need?ÌýOver 800 secondary English teachers told us their honest thoughts. Their answers suggest that it’s time for urgent reform in GCSE English.
Only a fifth
of all secondary English teachers (20%) say GCSE English is enjoyable to teach.Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý Ìý
More than two-thirds
of all teachers (68%) say current English GCSE assessments don’t fully capture skills.
Over half
of all teachers (53%) sayÌýGCSE English doesn’t prepare students for post-16 study.
So let's talk English...Ìý
Throughout 2025, we’re hosting a dynamic series of English-focused conversations, including interactive forums and roundtable discussions, focusing on the following areas:
Let's Talk English voicesÌý
Let’s Talk English is all about reimagining what English means for today’s learners and exploring what the subject could (and should) look like in classrooms across the country.Ìý
In our new series of videos and blogs, we’re bringing together English practitioners, sector leaders, students and influencers to share their views on the future of English, and how we can make it the engaging, innovative subject it truly can be.
Anthony Cockerill, Director of the National Association of the Teaching of English
What students read should reflect different identities, backgrounds and worldviews — and the curriculum should embrace real-world communication, from media and drama to spoken language. That’s exactly what Anthony is calling for.
Leandri Dannhauser, Network Lead Advisor for English at Ark
The current GCSE English specification isn’t bringing students joy — and may even be putting students off studying the subject beyond school. Leandri believes that the answer lies in creating opportunities for every student to shine.
Thomas Karshan, Associate Professor of Literature at UEA
What if GCSE English gave more space to creativity?ÌýThomas Karshan, Associate Professor of Literature at UEA, believes students should be encouraged to rewrite and reimagine the texts they study — not just analyse them.Ìý
Eva McManamon, Senior Strategy Manager for English at ÃÛÌÒapp
How can we make GCSE English more enjoyable? In this video, Eva McManamon, Senior Strategy Manager for English at ÃÛÌÒapp, shares her thoughts on this and our priorities for shaping the future of the subject.
Embedding creativity in the English classroom
Matt Bromley, CEO of bee and Chair of Building Equity in Education
Let's Talk English: the campaign so far...
An update on the first three months of the campaign
What do you believe English should be?
We want you – young people, teachers, leaders, families, English enthusiasts and communities – to be part of this urgent and groundbreaking conversation.
Join us in a dynamic series of English-focused activities, including the sharing of expert-led content and resources, interactive forums and roundtable discussions.
Together, we can revive English and make it the engaging, innovative and inclusive subject it truly can be; an English that works in every classroom, for every learner.
Support and resources
Explore our support and resources which can help you to enact positive change in the English classroom, starting from today.Ìý
The Resit Rethink
Lit in Colour Pioneers Programme
