A Level

English Literature

Course type
Level 3
Awarding Body
Pearson
Duration
2 years

Introduction to English Literature

While you avidly read a new book, do you ask yourself, ‘What else has this author written?' Do you wonder ‘What were the ideas of the period that made the writer think this way?’, ‘What did reviewers think of this book when it was first published?’ If so, English Literature is a course you will find particularly attractive

Entry requirements

Subject grades
GCSE grade 6 in English Language and English Literature.
Required Admissions Score
The indicative Minimum Entry Admissions Score for English Literature is 58.

About the Course

Do you enjoy reading and discussing the great works of literature? Do you want to expand your understanding of texts, contexts, ideas and to improve your writing? Then English Literature is for you. During your study of English Literature, you will explore eight texts while being encouraged to read independently, widely, and in-depth.

We will cover all three genres: Poetry, Drama and Prose across a range of periods and will include a selection of contemporary poetry written since the year 2000, the romantic John Keats, Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and the thematic exploration of either ‘Science and Society’ or ‘Women and Society’ in the novel. Coursework forms part of this A level course, and the theme is Belonging.

2023 English Literature A level results

41% of our students achieved an A* to A

78% of our students achieved A* to B

99% of our students achieved A* to E

Course information

The most important reason to study English Literature is because it is fascinating and great fun. However, the subject is also an excellent way of developing your skills, both of analysis and the construction of arguments. It is a course that not only introduces students to great writing of the past and more recent times, but it also approaches them in a way that will challenge you, open your mind and relate literature to history, philosophy, religion and society.

Want to find out more about your core A level programme?

Future Ready Programme

Hear from our students

English at Hills has given me the freedom to read more and read better, to meet like-minded, interesting people and to be taught by passionate teachers.
Ania, Year 12 student

Being able to share insights with fellow students has been a wonderful experience. All the texts studied have helped me grow and mature immensely
Amy, Year 12 student