English Language

• This course gives you the chance to explore how language is used in a wide range of contexts, from everyday conversations to creative writing and media texts. You'll study both fiction and non-fiction, looking at how meaning is shaped by word choices, structure and grammar. You'll also examine how factors like gender, age and occupation influence the way we use language.

  Topics include:

• Non-fiction analysis and writing (e.g. travel, reviews, advice writing)
• Fiction analysis and writing (e.g. dystopian, gothic, crime)
• Conversation analysis
• Language and social groups: occupation, age, ethnicity and more
• Standard and non-standard English
• Child language development
• Language change, including the history of English and 21st-century developments
• Gender and language use

You’ll also have the opportunity to specialise by choosing a specific text type to produce, based on non-fiction analysis, fiction analysis, or creative writing.

The A-Level English Language course helps you build valuable academic, analytical and written communication skills. Such skills are useful in a wide range of careers and university courses. Many students progress into fields where strong language and communication abilities are essential.

Possible progression routes include:

• Journalism
• Speech Therapy
• Publishing
• Teaching
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Advertising

The A-Level English Language programme offers flexibility and is a strong choice if you’re considering any career where clear, thoughtful communication plays a key role.

To study A-Level English Language, you’ll need:

• At least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above

• A minimum of grade 5 in English Language

If you’re not quite on track to meet these requirements, there may still be an opportunity to study A-Levels as part of a Mixed Programme, combining them with a BTEC qualification at Newman. Speak to the admissions team to explore your options.

A-Level English Language is assessed by AQA. Your final grade will be based on two exam papers taken at the end of Year 13, along with a coursework folder.

Throughout the course, you’ll be assessed regularly through homework, in-class activities and College Assessment Points (CAPs) each term to track your progress.

In Year 12, you will:

• Prepare for the Component 1 examination
• Study A Streetcar Named Desire
• Explore the Edexcel Anthology
• Begin your creative writing coursework

In Year 13, you will:

• Complete your creative writing coursework
• Study Wuthering Heights and The Bloody Chamber
• Analyse a range of unseen texts to prepare for Component 2

This structured style gives you time to develop your analytical and writing skills across both years, with regular feedback to support your progress.

English Language students have access to a range of enrichment opportunities including:

Trips to linguistics conferences and university language days

Guest lectures from academics and professionals in journalism, media, and publishing

Creative writing competitions and workshops

Contribution opportunities to the college’s magazine

Participation in clubs such as Debate Society

These activities help broaden your understanding of language and strengthen your academic and creative profile.

English Language complements a variety of other A Levels offered at Newman.

Popular combinations include

• English Literature,
• Psychology,
• Media Studies,
• Sociology,
• History,
• Law.

These subjects all support critical thinking, analysis, and communication—skills that are central to this course.