English Literature is a highly regarded A level. Universities and employers view it as a versatile qualification which shows that a student can think deeply, communicate clearly, and write with flair and accuracy. It is a course that will be useful to all students, but will be most enjoyable to those who like reading and expressing their views in writing and in discussion.

Students study an interesting mixture of modern literature and texts from the English literary heritage. In Year 12 students will study a Shakespeare play, collection of poetry and one prose text. In Year 13 students will study a wide range of texts on one of the following topics: ‘World War One and its aftermath’ or ‘Modern Times - Literature from 1945 to the present day’. In Year 13 students also write a sustained comparative essay on two texts of their choice for the non-examined assessment component of the course.

Progression

English Literature is an excellent route into many interesting careers including journalism, broadcasting, marketing, public relations, human resources, the creative industries and teaching.

Complementary Courses

English Literature blends particularly well with History, Modern Foreign Languages, Drama, Sociology, Government and Politics, and Art.