Why should you be interested in studying English? English literature has been an inspiration for many writers, directors and even journalism. Most of your favourite movies came from a great writer that wrote out the starting plotline so that the story can turn to life on the big screens. You will find that most books have been developed into a movie by the director and original writer, giving credit to their excellent writing and production skills. Writing has been a passion for years and is used in everyday life, it can encourage persuasive language and even helps those that are conducting research for future projects in university or work. English is a subject that is loved by many students in St Kentigern's Academy, and it is a department that is full of lovely teachers, giving out students many opportunities that they can explore to expand their abilities. There is a high range of literature in our school that is explored from poetry, prose fiction/non-fiction, drama, giving students the chance to inquire what genre they prefer. Currently, there is a poetry competition that is being run for students in S4-S6. This is an amazing opportunity for those who love to write in the style of poems, if you are interested, please go speak to Mrs Truesdale as submissions are encouraged! The entry date for this is the 27th of March so make sure you prepare your poems to be submitted because the few people that win the competition get the chance to speak with experienced poets and more. This could significantly help those who want to develop their writing and take it to a whole new level. An event that recently happened that further encouraged reading and writing was world book day; this was on the 5th of March. S6 students were allowed to come to school as their favourite character. Teachers also had the opportunity to dress as a favourite book characters. One of my favourites was Mr Kupfer's dinosaur, clearly all the students loved this iconic look. All students were brought together to celebrate and express themselves, because of the writing that comes from books, people are constantly bringing these characters into their lives and bonding with others through their love of the same author/book. Reading doesn't only increase your knowledge and expand your vocabulary, it helps you to reduce your stress, not only helping your brain to relax, but it helps your brain to concentrate. You can both lay back reading after a long day, resetting your brain, whilst strengthening your brain. I think that at least every person should write or read about what they love, something that they have a deep interest for.  It shows compassion and admiration; you should always look for opportunities to expand your knowledge on what you are interested in. So, if you didn't have any new year's resolutions hear is one: find a book you love.