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English Language

A Level / 2 year Course / Eduqas

Students will develop a wide range of language skills at a high level through the study of both written and spoken English. Students will learn to apply a wide variety of transferable skills, such as analytical skills, essay-writing skills and creative writing skills. Students will acquire key terminology to allow them to analyse and evaluate a range of texts, from memes to television interviews and everything in between. They will also become skilled creative writers.

More on this course

In Year 13, students will complete one piece of coursework, which is based on the language used to represent identity and allows students to choose a topic they find interesting. The topics are limited only by the imagination of the students. For example, one student may explore how a particular Grime artist’s lyrics have changed over time, while another may compare the speeches of male and female politicians.

Teaching and learning methods

In Year 12, students will explore topics such as the language used in C21st technology; the language used to exert power; the language used by different genders to represent their identity; creative writing to produce a wide range of texts for a variety of audiences and purposes; the use of spoken language in various situations, such as chat shows, talent shows and radio shows.

In Year 13, students will explore topics such as the change of language over time; the way children acquire language; the variety of language used by different regional and social groups.

Assessment

Component 1, exam (30%): Language Concepts and Issues
Component 2, exam (30%): Language change over time
Component 3, exam (20%): Creative and Critical use of Language
Component 4, coursework (20%): Language and Identity

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level English Language sharpens your communication, writing, and analytical skills, helping you master the art of language and its impact on society. You'll explore linguistics, language development, and how language shapes identity and culture. These skills open doors to careers in journalism, marketing, public relations, education, publishing, and media. Whether you aim to be a writer, editor, content strategist, or linguist, A Level English Language provides a strong foundation for a wide range of creative and professional opportunities that value effective communication and critical thinking.

Subject Combination

English language combines well with a wide variety of other subjects including English literature, history, sociology, psychology, media studies, law, philosophy, religious studies, politics and French.

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy