English Language & Literature

Offering an integrated approach to the study of language and literature, this course, which is highly regarded by all universities (as a facilitating subject) and by employers (as evidence of high level analytical and creative skills), emphasises the development of expertise in writing in a wide variety of genres as well as exposure to a range of literary set texts, making it particularly attractive to students who wish to build on their success in both Subjects at GCSE.

Before You Start

You may be required to complete an activity before you start in order to help introduce you to the subject. Check back in the summer term for more details.

Course Content

Over the course, you will develop your analytical and creative writing skills by studying a range of fictional and non-fictional material for different audiences and purposes, as well as experimenting in original writing. The opportunity to produce stories, screenplays, journalism, comedy, speeches and travelogues (amongst other genres) appeals to students who might hope for careers in creative and professional writing. 

Through the study of a broad range of set texts from the 16th to the 21st centuries, you will also extend your skills of close textual analysis to develop an increasingly mature response to a range of literature covering poetry, prose and drama.
Students will also build on their existing knowledge of language and literature, including how texts function and how authors create meaning, but also extend into new areas of study. These include: sociolinguistics, spoken language in use, critical theory and linguistic frameworks.

Students keen to further their study of both language and literature are advised to choose this combined course, as it brings together many of the best elements of English studies into one A level. 

You are also encouraged to supplement your programme with the Extended Project, if eligible

Find out more about The Extended Project

Careers 

There are a wide variety of options for students wishing to pursue a career that requires English skills. Some may be interested in roles in journalism, publishing or politics. Other areas to consider are media, marketing and PR, business and teaching. 

Higher Education

A key course for students planning to continue on to university to study subjects including English language and literature, English literature, English studies, law, politics, history, sociology, creative writing, linguistics and teaching.

It also provides a strong grounding for those wishing To pursue many other subject areas at degree level.

Last year students went on to a variety of destinations including university places at Winchester, South Wales, Portsmouth, Royal Holloway, Canterbury, Lincoln, Surrey, Roehampton, Manchester, Reading, Sheffield, Chichester, Cardiff, Brighton, Bristol, and Birmingham.

Alternatively, students may consider direct entry into employment or further training.

Enrichment is an expectation at The Henley College, learn more about Enrichment here.

Learn more about our application process here.