English Language A Level

Sixth Form Open Evening- Wednesday 5th November 5-7pm

Applications Open - Now!

Applications Close - End of Term 4 2026. Please contact Mrs Silvester if you would like to apply after this date (lucy.silvester@swale.at)

Entry Requirements: - Generally 5 grade 5s or above in GCSE, including English and Maths but some subjects do vary.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Whilst building on the skills of GCSE English Language, studying English Language at the next level is much more varied and exciting. It provides a wealth of opportunities for students to develop a range of skills that are and will always be relevant throughout their everyday lives. Students are encouraged to think analytically, delving beyond the surface meaning of texts by examining how writers use different language levels to construct them. Furthermore, not only do they explore written texts but also spoken language which in the modern era is equally important. How language differentiates us from other species and how it has changed over time are just some of the key ideas. Being able to work independently and having the confidence to justify their own views when responding to a wide range of language issues are further skills that students will develop on this course.

Students will study the topics of Exploring Language (which examines how writers construct different texts as well as encouraging students to offer their own opinions on language issues including technology, power and gender) and Dimensions of Linguistic Variations (which examines issues of language change and child language acquisition). The course also includes a coursework element, in which students investigate an aspect of language use completely of their own choosing and produce both a full investigation alongside an academic poster.

This course is assessed through 80% examination. There are two equally weighted examination papers at the end of the second year. The non-examined assessment (coursework element) is marked by the teacher and is worth 20% of the final grade.

In addition to the general requirements for access onto A Level courses pupils would be expected to achieve a grade 6 in either English Language or Literature.

The skills are highly valued in a range of jobs, apprenticeships and university courses. It exhibits that students are academically able, well-read, capable writers and understand the importance of effective communication. Specific careers which will benefit from the study of this subject are journalism, law, broadcasting, media, teaching, advertising, editing, lexicography and marketing among many others. An A Level in English Language will open many doors to a successful future.