English Literature A Level

Applications Open - 21st November 2025

Closing Date for applications is Friday 13th February 2026.

Applications are still welcomed after the February closing date, and we will still try to ensure that each person's subject options are possible.

Entry Requirements - Please see our prospectus for grades needed

How to Apply -

ALL applications are to be made via KentChoices - if you do not have log in details, please speak to your school. If you are applying from outside of our area or an Independent school please email ccvioffice@ccgrammarschool.co.uk

**** IMPORTANT ****

Closing Date for applications is Friday 13th February 2026.

Applications are still welcomed after the February closing date, and we will still try to ensure that each person's subject options are possible.

What is the course about?

The course will involve the study of eight to ten literary texts – poetry, drama and novels written during the past 700 years. Shakespeare is likely to be the most distant writer chronologically; in contrast, at least one text will have been written since 2000. English Literature is a subject that by its nature has always required candidates to consider individual, moral, ethical, social, political, cultural and contemporary issues but, unlike previous specifications, the new syllabus also includes ‘unseen’ material which tests the autonomous reading skills of students.

For whom is the course suitable?

Prospective students should have a genuine love of literature and a readiness to engage in the extensive independent reading that is built into the course. Students will broaden their critical and analytical skills and will be encouraged to present their own insights and develop their own judgements.

Teaching Methods and Homework commitment:

The teaching of English Literature centres around discussion and students are expected to take an active part in this. Lessons will take the form of teacher- led discussion, student-led discussion, presentations, essay writing skills and reading skills. Homework will be regular reading and wider independent reading along with preparing presentations and developing essay writing skills.

What could I go on to do at the end of the course?

Skills learnt in the study of English Literature are transferable to a wide range of subjects at degree level. As a core subject, English is a firm base on which to build most careers. You may decide to pursue careers in the teaching profession, publishing or the media. Yet other students use their generic skills to enter such diverse areas as government administration, law, finance and management.

Method of Study and Assessment:

A Level Course

Paper 1 – Love Through The Ages

Study of three texts: one poetry & one prose, of which one must be written pre 1900, & one Shakespeare play. The exam will include two unseen poems.

Written exam 3 hours - 40% of A Level

Paper 2– Texts in Shared contexts

Modern times: Literature from 1945 to present day

A study of three texts: one prose, one poetry and one drama, of which one must be written post 2000. The exam will include an unseen extract.

Written exam 2 hours 30 minutes - 40% of A Level

Non-exam assessment:

Independent Critical Study : Texts across Time

Comparative critical study of two texts, at least one to have been written pre 1900

One extended essay (2500 words) and a bibliography - 20% of A Level

Website URL: For more information please go to http://www.ccgrammarschool.co.uk

See Prospectus on school website for details