GCE A Level in English Literature
at Sacred Heart Catholic School, London · school or sixth form
What the college says
This course takes a historicist approach to the study of English Literature and works on the belief that no text exists in isolation but is the product of the time in which it was produced. Students are encouraged to explore the relationships that exist between texts and the contexts within which they are written, received and understood. Study involves investigating different texts, making connections, drawing out patterns of similarity and difference using a variety of reading strategies and perspectives, encouraging students to debate and challenge the interpretations of other readers as they develop their own informed personal responses. The course invites a variety of written response types and encourages critical debate. In each task, students will be required to argue and to show personal responses and critical preferences, supported by the terminology relevant to the topics and contexts with which they are engaging. In doing so, they will be able to show 'creativity'. English Literature not only equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for exams, but also opens up a rich, challenging and coherent approach to English Literature that provides an excellent basis for further study in the subject. Study of English at A Level will help develop skills including: independent thinking, planning and research, negotiation and teamwork, constructing and developing arguments and lines of enquiry, as well as critical and analytical thinking.
What you need to get on
A minimum of one grade 6 and one grade 7 in GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language; two grade 7s or above is desirable
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
Sacred Heart Catholic School
Camberwell New Road, London, SE5 0RP
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 1 September 2026 · London
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.
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Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School
Ramsgate · South East · 24 months
- Their version
London · London · 2 years
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Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School
St. Albans · East of England · 2 years
- Their version
Gateshead · North East · 2 years
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St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy
Stoke-On-Trent · West Midlands · 2 years
- Their version
London · London · 2 years
- Their version
North West · 360 hours
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Thirsk School & Sixth Form College
Thirsk · Yorkshire and The Humber · 24 months