Year 10 & 11

English and English Literature are taught as a combined course at GCSE.  From the Spring Term in Year 9 all students are prepared for AQA Syllabus A for both English and English Literature.   Students submit a single, integrated folder of coursework – this combination of coursework and examinations leads to separate awards in each subject.
In English Literature students are required to read, discuss and write about plays, poems and novels in a variety of ways, reflecting their understanding of plot and communicate a sensitive and informed personal response to what they have read.  High standards of grammar, spelling and punctuation and the use of an expressive vocabulary are expected at all times in both English and English Literature. 

Year 12 & 13

English Literature builds on the skills and knowledge gained at GCSE. Students study prose, poetry and drama texts and make connections between them. Students will develop the ability to study ‘unprepared’ texts and to communicate their ideas effectively in speech and writing. They will study both modern texts and texts from previous centuries.  They will gain an understanding of cultural, historical and other influences on texts. At AS, the focus will be on the ‘Literature of the First World War’. At A2, the core topic will be ‘Love through the Ages’. This course is for students who enjoy discussing and writing about literature and our hope is that they leave with a life-long love of reading.