The Middle School English Department at The Koç School is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic educational environment that promotes academic honesty, intellectual curiosity, disciplined study habits, and a passion for reading and writing. Our aspiration is to nurture students who can thrive both independently and collaboratively to become adventurous, self-motivated, industrious learners who can communicate their ideas in a sophisticated way at an early age. Our primary goal is to provide our students with the high quality learning environment required to prepare them for the competitive education both in our subject and in the wider school community. As we are positioned midway through our students’ language learning experiences, we ensure that strong roots are planted in the full range of skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening, and grammar.

The Grade 5-8 program is designed to enhance students’ English language proficiency while immersing them in the world of literature through prose and poetry. Our approach integrates reading and writing content, and carefully chosen novels, promoting an adaptive learning experience that aligns with the needs of our diverse student profile, and is framed within the broader scope of the MEB learning outcomes.

Within the department, we celebrate diversity and recognize its value in providing a global perspective on language. With teachers from various countries, we expose our students to English as a global language, emphasizing the importance of linguistic diversity and understanding English as the lingua franca. This exposure enhances students’ empathy and prepares them to navigate a world that is increasingly interconnected. Participation in  extra-curricular activities such as English Drama Club, JMUNDP (Junior Model United Nations), Koç Scholars Academy (The World Scholar’s Cup), and Destination Imagination (DI) not only builds language proficiency but also nurtures adaptability, innovation, and a sense of global citizenship.

Collaboration among teachers is a cornerstone of our approach. Working in groups, teachers create resources that challenge students, encouraging critical thinking and diverse approaches to course content. This collaborative effort aligns with our mission to shape lifetime learners – individuals who can think independently and articulate their insights confidently. We promote a learning environment where students can convey their ideas through presentations, debates, and speech contests, all while remaining informed, empathetic, and well-prepared for the challenges of a world undergoing momentous changes.