A levels in English Literature

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply – Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Canterbury College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

English Literature enhances our knowledge of the world and develops a habit of critical thinking. It helps us to explore psychology and the human condition. More importantly, English Literature lets us explore opinions and empathy. This is a subject where readers are asked to step into someone else's shoes and identify with other people's emotions.

Throughout the two-year programme you will explore the literary genre of Tragedy, studying texts like: • 'Othello' by William Shakespeare • 'Death of a Salesman' by Arthur Miller You will also study a selection of poetry by John Keats. In addition to Tragedy, you will be studying Elements of Policial and Social Protest Writing. The texts for study are: • 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini • 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' by William Blake • 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood

In the first year, there is no examination. You will only complete an internal assessment. In the second year you will sit two exams based on the literary genres studied. There is also a coursework module which will consist of two pieces of independently produced essays.

To study this A Level, you'll need a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 or above across your top six subjects with at least a 5 in Maths and English Language or Literature. Your GPA average can include English and Maths.

By the end of your course, a diverse range of progression paths will be open to you such as a degree, a high-level apprenticeship or an entry level role in the industry. This course is perfect for those who wish to pursue a degree-level course in areas such as journalism, broadcasting, publishing, writing, teaching, banking, marketing and project management. Many of our A Level learners progressed into university. Chris studied A Levels in English Literature, Sociology and Psychology, and progressed to Canterbury Christ Church University to study Social Work . He commented: "Sixth form was great for me. I was very introverted before I came here and was worried about meeting new people. Luckily everyone was really friendly and I made new friends quickly. I love to help people which is why I have chosen a Social Work degree. I want to work as a social worker or in a school as a safeguarding lead. The job would be challenging but really rewarding."