The English Department A key element of our success at St. Peter’s is for pupils to be able to master the English Language and, at the same time, develop an understanding of both Portuguese and English Cultures. Subjects taught in Portuguese follow the Portuguese National syllabus, while subjects taught in English follow the English Cambridge Exams curriculum. The Cambridge Exams aim to prepare students for further academic success, apart from their school syllabus. Students at St. Peter’s School start taking the Cambridge Examinations at the age of 8 (Grade 3) with the Young Learners Exams (http://www.britishcouncil.org/portugal-exames-ingles-criancas.htm). These examinations provide young students, between the ages of 7 and 12, with a gentle introduction to public exams. These tests can act as a motivational stepping-stone for future University of Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Exams. The Preliminary English Test (PET) (http://www.britishcouncil.org/portugal-exames-ingles-pet.htm), usually taken in Grades 7 and 8, tests students’ ability to cope with everyday written and spoken communications. This intermediate level ESOL exam is a valuable qualification if you want to work or study abroad or to develop a career in international business. It is also useful preparation for higher level exams such as FCE, CAE and CPE. The First Certificate in English (FCE) (http://www.britishcouncil.org/portugal-exames-ingles-fce.htm) is an Upper-Intermediate level exam, which provides students with the ability to deal confidently with a range of written and spoken communications. This externally-assessed Cambridge exam is taken by our students after the completion of the ninth grade. It is the threshold of preparation for future academic success and is recognised by universities and employers throughout the world. During the final year of Secondary School, students are given the opportunity to sit the Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE). The Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) is the second highest level Cambridge ESOL exam, at level C1 of the council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. CAE enables our students to improve their language skills and use them in a wide range of contexts. The exams are based on realistic tasks, and indicate student's ability to use the language in pratical situatons. With this certificate, our students will be more then capable of following university courses taught in English. The CPE is the highest level Cambridge ESOL exam, at level C2 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. CPE is widely recognized as the standard for university entrance. Professional bodies and the corporate sector acknowledge CPE as the certification of a near native command of English. It is recognised by the Ministry of Education to teach in primary school (http://www.britishcouncil.org/portugal-exames-ingles.htm). Students whose level of English is not to standard, have extra help lessons while continuing with the regular syllabus. Listening Students are trained from the tender age of 3, to use their listening skills in English appropriately. Listening comprehension and aural exercises are done on a systematic and periodic basis. Speaking Oral participation is encouraged at all times inside and outside the classroom. Discussions range from the subject matter to a response to visual stimuli. Reading Our students are encouraged in every way possible to catch “the reading bug”. All pupils read at least two literature books throughout the year, chosen according to their level of English. In addition, the school enables students to acquire other reading materials including magazines from English-speaking countries. Writing At St Peter’s School every student will assimilate a variety of writing styles, from business letters and play scripts to personal poetry. Strong emphasis is placed on the “nuts and bolts” of the writing process – grammar, syntax, spelling and punctuation. Creative writing is encouraged at all levels.