GCSE English

This course is suitable for students aged 19 and over.

This course will help you develop an insight into the rich heritage of English and (along with GCSE Maths) forms part of the minimum entry requirements for a wide range of careers including Nursing, Teaching and the Police Force.

The course aims to develop skills in both spoken and written English as well as the ability to read a wide range of written texts analytically.

GCSE English is an essential subject that will benefit you in achieving your career aspirations. English will help you across all your subjects, in your future career and in life.

This qualification will enable young people and adults of all abilities to develop the skills they need to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts covering the 19th, 20th and 21st century time periods as well as to write clearly, coherently and accurately using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures.

When will I start the course and how long will it take?

This course is due to start in September 2024. If you would like to register your interest for the next available start date, please complete our online application form here.

The course takes up to 17 weeks to complete. There is an option to study either during the day or in the evening.

It is also recommended that you undertake an additional 1.5 hours per week of self-study.

This course is delivered at our Main Campus, Huyton, L36 3SD.

What will I study?

Written work will cover:

• How to analyse a variety of non-fiction texts.
• How to write in a range of styles for different audiences and purposes, e.g. a newspaper/ magazine article, a journal, a play extract or a creative piece.
• How to analyse an aspect of spoken language in different contexts, e.g. children’s language or the language of soap operas.

Research techniques and language analysis will be central to many of the assignments.

Speaking and listening skills will involve group and individual assignments and will run throughout the course. They are organised in a friendly, non-threatening atmosphere. In order to consolidate the skills taught, you will need to do directed study in your own time.

You will study alongside like-minded people in classes delivered by friendly supportive tutors.

How is it assessed?

You will need to sit two end of year exams in June consisting of Paper 1 and Paper 2. You will also undertake a spoken language assessment. Your tutor will fully support you in your assessments.

If you have previously studied GCSE English with us over the last two years and did not achieve a grade 4, you may have the option to sit the GCSE English exam in November.

Do I need any previous qualifications to start this course?

No, you do not require any other qualifications, however entry to this qualification will be based upon the results of an initial and diagnostic assessment that you will be required to undertake upon application.

What are the course fees?

This course is free to study providing you don’t hold a grade 4 (equivalent to grade C) or above at GCSE level.

What can I go on to do once I have completed this course?

Gaining a GCSE in English can lead to several progression opportunities. You may decide to undertake further study either in further or higher education.

Generally this qualification will enhance your CV and improve your employability prospects.

Ref: Lynsey Sewell