English Literature stimulates our understanding of the world we live in and provides an opportunity for students to examine the ways the social, political and historical context in which texts are written shape them. This qualification provides students with critical thinking skills, negotiation, communication opportunities and training in academic writing. The course encourages students to further their interest in English Literature through reading widely, critically and independently. You will explore an exciting range of drama, prose and poetry that spans time, genre and gender, examining the relationships that exist between texts and the perspectives they offer, encouraging you to challenge perceived interpretations.
English Literature is a respected and rigorous A-Level and is a great foundation for further study in Higher Education. Previous students have continued their study of English Literature at university and enjoyed careers in sectors such as law, the media, publishing, advertising and the Civil Service. Alongside these more ‘traditional’ paths the A-Level also provides much sought-after ‘soft skills’ prized by STEM employers and proves to universities that a student is a well-rounded and excellent communicator.
Join us on theatre trips, study visits, university workshops. Seminars and masterclasses give students a taste of different specialisms that the subject can offer. Our KS5 Book Club also provides lots of wider reading and discussion opportunities.
5 GCSEs 9 – 5, including English Language and English Literature and one humanities subject.
• How to write a critical essay
• Introduction to advanced terminology
• Love Poetry across time: developing skills of unseen poetry comparison
• Prose and poetry comparison: The Great Gatsby and AQA Pre-1900 Poetry Anthology
• An introduction to the non-exam assessment (coursework)
• Prose and poetry comparison: The Color Purple and The Feminine Gospels
The course follows the AQA A-Level English Literature A Level Specification A, Option B. This is examined as follows:
• Paper 1: 3 hours (40% of course)
• Paper 2: 2.5 hours (40% of course)
• Non-examined assessment (coursework) (20% of course)
Our teachers are specialists in their field of study and have a wide range of skills. You will be supported by GCSE and A-Level examiners, plus A-Level coursework moderators, who are passionate, experienced and have a love of their subject.