A Level English Language & Literature

Course Code

A Level English Language & Literature

Course Type

Course Duration

2 Years

Start Date

1 September, 2025
Student flicking through pages with laptop

Develop your analytical, creative, and interpretative skills in both English Language and Literature. The Central Saint Michael’s A Level course offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of literary and non-fiction texts while developing both linguistic and literary analytical skills, and appeals to learners interested in pursuing careers or further study in English, journalism, law, teaching, publishing or creative writing. You will study poetry, drama, prose and spoken language, learning how to interpret and engage with texts in depth. Alongside your analytical work, you’ll produce original writing and critical commentary, and complete a non-exam assessment (coursework). The course also encourages independent reading and research, helping you build valuable skills that are highly transferable to both higher education and a wide range of careers.

Modules

Component 01 – Exploring Non-Fiction and Spoken Texts: Study and compare spoken and written texts across time and context. Explore the Language Framework and linguistic devices.

Component 02 – The Language of Poetry and Plays: Detailed stylistic analysis of a poetry collection and a play.

Component 03 – Reading as a Writer, Writing as a Reader: Study of a prose fiction text, followed by original narrative writing.

Component 04 – Independent Study: Coursework comparing two texts (one must be post-2000) and a piece of original non-fiction writing.

Facilities

• College library with extensive literary and linguistic resources
• Drama studio and performance space
• Quiet study zones and digital editing suites

All students studying A Levels should have at least five GCSEs at grade 9 – 5 in academic subjects, including English Language at grade 5. Two of these should be grade 6. Specifically for English Language and Literature, you will need a grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language and a grade 5 or above in GCSE English Literature.

  • Creative writing workshops
  • Theatre trips and author talks
  • University taster sessions
  • English Language and Literature debates and clubs
  • Writing for the college magazine

For when you’re not studying, we offer a whole range of enrichment activities which are not only good fun but help you make friends, develop new skills and add to your CV and university applications. There are trips and visits to bring your studies to life, and you can get involved in sport, debating and many other activities.

Through the Student Union and our college committees, you can get involved in volunteering, enterprise, fundraising projects or the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. We run societies for you to join and we organise events and festivals to celebrate our inclusive and diverse community. As for entertainment, we regularly host film nights and go on theatre trips to see live productions.

  • 3 written exams (Components 01–03)
  • 1 coursework component (Component 04)

Assessment objectives include language analysis, creativity, contextual awareness and cross-textual connections.
Regular formative assessments, feedback, peer reviews, one-to-one tutorials, and exam preparation workshops are provided.

University:

  • BA in English Language and/or Literature
  • Journalism or Media Studies degree
  • Law degree or foundation course
  • Primary/Secondary English Teaching degree
  • Creative Writing degree
  • Higher-Level Apprenticeships in Publishing, Marketing or Communications

Potential Careers:

  • Marketing executive
  • Proofreader
  • Publishing assistant
  • Researcher
  • Scriptwriter
  • SEO executive
  • Social media executive
  • Web content manager

Course Details

Exam Board

Qualification

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Apply for this course or find out more

Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

Related Courses

Student flicking through pages with laptop
Develop your analytical, creative, and interpretative skills in both English Language and Literature. The Central Saint Michael’s A Level course offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of literary and non-fiction texts while...
Course Duration
2 Years
Course Type
A Level
Start Date
September 1, 2025
Qualification Level
Level 3

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