16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

English Literature (A Level)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

Enrolment on an A Level programme requires a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 - 4, including English and maths.

Specific criteria for this subject:
  • A minimum average point score of 4.25
  • Grade 5 English Language GCSE; Grade 4 Maths GCSE

Course information

If you are studying at Havering Sixth Form:

This A Level invites you to engage with powerful texts from the Elizabethan era to the 21st century, exploring how historical, social and cultural contexts shape literature. You’ll build original, well-argued interpretations, sharpening close reading, research, and written and verbal communication.

Key strands include literary presentations of gender across time and the relationship between social and political power and the individual. George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four anchors study of dystopia, oppression and surveillance. Assessment includes two coursework tasks, with one option for original creative writing. English Literature is a demanding but rewarding facilitating subject valued by universities and employers.

The course is demanding yet rewarding and will occupy at least five hours of independent study per week. English Literature is regarded as a facilitating subject and is held in high esteem by universities and employers. 

English Literature is studied alongside two other A Levels or one other A Level and one Level 3 Extended Certificate/AAQ. Courses that combine well include History, Drama, Film Studies, Psychology, Religious Studies, Philosophy and Sociology.

Exam board is OCR.

If you are studying at Attlee Academy:

This course offers a broad, integrated study of plays, prose and poetry with an emphasis on thematic exploration and close textual analysis. You will learn how writers use form, structure and language to shape meaning, and you’ll develop your own interpretations through discussion, wider reading and structured essay writing.

Assessment combines coursework with examinations on set texts and unseen materials, encouraging you to apply concepts and terminology confidently across a range of literature.

Key topics

Havering Sixth Form - Key Topics and What to Expect

  • Improve vocabulary
  • Present rational, well-structured arguments
  • Close analysis of language and its effects
  • Develop research and referencing skills
  • Enhance verbal and written communication
  • Strengthen knowledge of literature and culture
  • Develop critical thinking

Attlee A Level Academy - Key Topics and What to Expect

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study, a higher level apprenticeship or employment.

English Literature students are well equipped to progress on to a range of university courses including English Literature, Publishing, Journalism, Teaching, Media-related courses, History, Law, Business, and many more. Many top business and marketing executives have English Literature A Level or a degree in English. Due to the importance of written and verbal communication as well as critical thinking, the course opens up a multitude of paths for future study and employment. Former students have gone on to work in the media and communications industry, teaching, publishing, the Civil Service and as librarians.

Life At NCC

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Facilities for Students

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Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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