English Combined

What is A-Level English Language and Literature?

In Edexcel A Level English Language and Literature, students explore a rich combination of linguistic analysis and literary study, examining how language is used creatively and purposefully across a range of texts. The course focuses on both spoken and written forms of communication, enabling students to develop critical reading, interpretation, and analytical skills. One key component is the Edexcel Anthology, which features a diverse selection of 20th and 21st century texts including speeches, interviews, memoirs, and travel writing. These are studied for their stylistic and linguistic features, with particular attention paid to how identity, power, and viewpoint are conveyed through language. Students also study the play 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams, analysing its dramatic techniques, characterisation, and themes such as desire, gender, and mental instability. A major comparative element of the course involves studying 'The Bloody Chamber' by Angela Carter alongside 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Brontë, where students explore gothic and feminist themes, narrative style, and how writers challenge traditional representations of gender and power. In addition to set texts, students develop skills in responding to unseen prose nonfiction, learning how to analyse unfamiliar texts through close reading and contextual understanding. Students also complete a creative writing coursework folder, allowing them to utilise many of the skills they have observed within their study of other writers. Overall, the course encourages thoughtful engagement with a range of texts and voices, fostering both analytical precision and creative appreciation.

What Will You Study on A-Level English Combined?

This engaging A-Level English Combined programme allows you to explore language in both literary and non-literary texts. You'll develop your analytical skills, broaden your appreciation of different genres and refine your own creative writing.

Key texts include:

The Edexcel Voices in Speech and Writing Anthology
A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter

Throughout the course, you will:

Study a range of drama, poetry and prose across different genres
Develop your own creative writing by learning how to write like published authors and journalists
Explore how writers use language to create mood, emotion and meaning
Examine the psychology of language, looking at the unspoken rules behind everyday conversations

This programme helps you see language in a new light whilst building skills that are valuable for university and beyond.

What Next after Completing an A-Level in English Language and Literature?

Many students continue their studies at top universities, including members of the Russell Group, pursuing degrees in areas such as:

English Literature
English Language and Linguistics
Creative Writing
Journalism and Media Studies
Law
History
Education and Teaching
Politics and Philosophy

Combined English prepares students well for essay-based subjects that require close reading, interpretation, and argumentation.

The skills developed—such as writing, analysis, and interpreting meaning—are transferable to a wide variety of professions. Students have gone on to careers in:

Publishing
Marketing and PR
Journalism and Broadcasting
Law
Teaching
Civil Service and Public Sector
Copywriting and Content Creation

What is the Exam Board for A-Level English Language and Literature?

A-Level English Language and Literature is assessed by Edexcel, a well-established exam board known for its clear course structure and wide range of engaging texts.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level English Language and Literature?

To enrol on this course, you’ll need:

At least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above

A grade 6 in either English Language or English Literature

At least a grade 5 in the other English subject

If you’re not quite on track to meet these requirements, you might still be able to study A-Levels as part of a Mixed Programme, combining them with a BTEC qualification at Newman.

Speak to the admissions team to find out more about your options.

What Enrichment is on offer in this subject?

Debate society
Trip to the Bronte Parsonage
Trip to a range of universities
Theatre visits.

What other subjects go well with this subject?

History
Philosophy or Religious Studies
Politics
Drama and Theatre Studies
Media Studies
Modern Foreign Languages
Art
Film Studies
Sociology
Psychology
Law

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