English Literature A Level (Bridgwater)

Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
A Levels, English
Location
Bridgwater College
Start date
01/09/2026

Course Overview

During your English Literature A Level, you will study a broad and engaging selection of poetry, novels, and dramatic texts from across the literary periods, by writers such as William Shakespeare, Emily Bronte and Carol Ann Duffy. In addition to learning to unpick intricate layers of meaning you will explore the cultural and historical influences on writers and learn to apply literary criticism.

English Literature A Level will provide you with acutely developed analytical and research skills much valued in higher education and by employers. It is also useful for the study of other A Level subjects. The course is assessed through exams and independent coursework, for which students choose their own focus to pursue.

Topics may include:

  • Poetry
  • Drama
  • Novels
  • Social, historical, biographical, and literary contexts
  • Literary theory and criticism.

At the start of the course, all students are expected to make a payment via the college online store, for copies of the studied texts.

Assessment Methods

Students sit three written exams at the end of year two. Additionally, there is a coursework element, involving the comparison of two novels, also submitted in year two.

Progression Options

Students who have gained this qualification have gone on to study at some of the top universities such as Oxford, Exeter, York and Bristol. Subjects include: English, history, teaching, international relations, linguistics and drama.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range including English.

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.