English Language and Literature A Level 3

Applications Open – 21st November 2025

Applications Close – 30th April 2026

Entry Requirements – At least 5 GCSE passes at grades 9-5 in the new qualifications (or A*- B grade in the old GCSEs) including English (either Literature or Language if both were taken) and mathematics.

Preference on Advanced Level courses will be given to those students securing at least a grade 6 (or grade B in the old GCSE assessment system) in the subject they wish to study.

How to Apply – Please apply via KentChoices

COURSE - The course begins where English Language and Literature GCSEs left off. The range of texts studied is wider than in English Literature, although no more are studied in depth, and there is much greater importance placed on students’ own creative efforts.

Component 1 consists of analysis of voice in 20th and 21st century extracts and study of a dramatic work from a prescribed list (examples include ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ and ‘The History Boys’. Your teacher will decide which text to study).

Written examination, lasting 2 hours 30 minutes. 40% of qualification.

Component 2 involves close reading of two literary texts from a prescribed list (examples include ‘Dracula’, ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Betrayal’). Your teacher will decide which ones to study). Students also study prose non-fiction texts.

Written examination, lasting 2 hours 30 minutes. 40% of qualification.

Coursework: Topic-based research leads to original writing – one fiction piece, one non-fiction piece and an analytical commentary. Students have free choice of text and topic here.

Total advisory word count: 2500-3250. 20% of qualification.

ASSESSMENT - As in most subjects, assessment is by a variety of methods: tests on reading, assessment of note-taking, research, essay-planning and writing, oral presentations and creative exercises. There will be opportunities for students to assess work themselves against the criteria, and a series of preparatory assignments in each unit.

ADMISSIONS - Students need preferably to have achieved a grade 6 at least, in English Language and Literature. It is important that candidates have a willingness to read a wide range of texts critically and enjoy creative writing.

CAREERS - Journalism, teaching, advertising, public relations; general arts-related careers such as the Law or the Civil Service or Human Resources.