• Five GCSEs at grades 9-4/A*-C, including grade 4/C in English Language

• At least one grade 5/C and one grade 6/B in GCSE written subjects. One of these must be English Language. Other written subjects include History, Geography, Humanities, English Literature, Business, Media Studies, Religious Studies (full course)

International students:

• Equivalent overseas qualifications will be considered. 

• IELTS 5.5 (with a minimum of 5.0 in each skill) or equivalent.

You will study a range of texts from literary and non-literary genres, such as fiction, drama, poetry, journalism, autobiography, diaries, letters, speeches and television scripts. You will explore and compare how writers and speakers use language and structure to express their thoughts and feelings, and how language choices are influenced by the context, audience and purpose. You will develop an analytical approach to language, including a systematic understanding of grammar, vocabulary, sound and structure.  You will also develop your creative writing skills.

Assessment is by exam (80%) and coursework (20%). Assessment in both the exams and coursework is by a combination of essay-based tasks and creative tasks.

English Language and Literature A-level will qualify you for degrees in English Language or Literature, or combined degrees that include English. It is useful for degrees in Communication Studies, Journalism, Media, Drama and Theatre Studies. The skills you will develop in analysis and writing will be very useful for other humanities, social sciences and business-related degrees. Within the workplace, employers highly value the verbal and written communication skills that are at the heart of this course.