GCSE English Language
Who is the qualification for?
Anyone aiming to study at university and/or improve jobs prospects.
Do I need any prior knowledge or qualifications?
No prior qualification is needed. You will complete an initial assessment before joining the course. This is to assess if GCSE English is the right course for you and if it is, which class is the most suitable for you.
Please note: to study GCSE English, it is important you have good grammar skills. This means that sentences are clear and understandable. It is because there is not a lot of time to improve grammar on the course.
How much does the course cost?
It is free if you do not already have a Grade 4 (which is the same as a Grade C).
How will I be assessed on the course?
You will complete two exam papers, which take place between the end of May and early June. There is no coursework.
Paper One:
- Read and analyse the language and structure of a piece of fiction
- Write a piece of creative writing
Paper Two:
- Read and analyse the language of a non-fiction text; this includes articles, letters, speeches...
- Write a piece of persuasive writing
To help prepare for the exam papers, you will complete a progress assessment every half term. This is so you, and your teacher, can see how well you have understood the work and help you to improve.
What classes do we offer?
Onsite:
Most of our daytime classes will be in our centres. You need to attend twice a week. Each class is 2.5hrs.
Online:
Most of our online courses are weekday evenings and Saturday daytimes for 3hrs.
Once every half term you will need to attend in person for progress assessments. It is therefore important you choose a centre you can easily get to.
Because the course is mostly online, you will need good IT skills. You will also need a reliable internet connection and quiet workspace.
Whether you learn online or onsite, there will be a mix of group and individual work, focused on developing the skills you need to pass the exams and succeed in life.
What do we expect from you?
You must be able to attend every week and complete all work. Class time and homework would be 5-7 hours a week.
If you work or are doing other courses, ensure you can dedicate enough time to the course. This will give you the best opportunity of passing.
What could this course lead to?
The course can lead to A Levels, BTECs and Access courses, Higher Education and employment.
Route to Work: support if you are registered unemployed, looking for a job or a better job –
As part of your programme of learning, we will support you to develop the skills you need to get a job or a better job, such as CV writing, application forms, interviews and working in a team. Your tutor will discuss your individual learning and development needs to agree with you which of our Route to Work short courses will best suit your needs and enrol you onto these modules.
Other information
You must book and attend an Initial Assessment which will take place before the course starts. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the Information Line on 0121 303 4318.
Useful websites
AQA Exam Board: www.aqa.org.uk/8700
Open University online course to develop reading and writing skills needed for study at university:https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/everyday-english-2/contentsection-overview-0?active-tab=description-tab
BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/education/examspecs/zcbchv4
Birmingham Adult Education Service: www.learnbaes.ac.uk
