English Literature
at South Devon College, Paignton · college
What the college says
Literature captures human experiences, exploring love, conflict, identity, power, and the big questions that define who we are. If you enjoy reading, thinking independently, and generating ideas, A Level English Literature at South Devon College offers a rich and rewarding journey. This course gives you the chance to explore a diverse range of texts including prose, poetry and drama, spanning classic works and contemporary voices. You’ll analyse how writers craft meaning, how stories reflect the societies they come from, and how literature continues to challenge and inspire us today. English Literature is a subject that values discussion and open-minded thinking. You’ll be encouraged to share ideas, form your own interpretations, and back them up with thoughtful analysis. Along the way, you’ll develop advanced skills in critical thinking, evaluation and written communication - skills that are highly respected in both higher education and the workplace. Assessment is split between 40% coursework and 60% final exam, giving you the chance to demonstrate your understanding through both extended writing and close textual analysis. Whether you're interested in careers in journalism, publishing, education, law, media, the arts or creative writing, A Level English Literature provides an excellent foundation. It’s a subject that shows you can think deeply, argue clearly, and engage with complex ideas. If you love reading and want to explore how stories shape the way we see the world,
What you need to get on
You must have a GCSE Grade 5(B) in English, You must have 5 GCSEs at Grade 4(C) or above
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Vantage Point Main Building
Long Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EJ
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 14 September 2026 · Paignton
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
- Their version
Southend-On-Sea · East of England · 180 hours
- Their version
Cranbrook · South East · 2 years
- Their version
Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group
Exeter · South West · 175 hours
- Their version
Chichester · South East · 2 years
- Their version
New Milton · South East · 9 months
- Their version
Uxbridge · London · 1 year
- Their version
Durham · North East · 1 year
- Their version
Carlisle · North West · 1 year