English Literature

Course summary

Studying English Literature at Bolton School enables the exploration of a subject that is not only academically rigorous and well respected, but also one that will ensure your capacity to ponder, probe and consider the manner of society, its history, its morals, and its changes. Literature encompasses the very highs and lows of the human condition and allows individuals to gain sophisticated communication skills and well as create a space and time for self-reflection and development. As a Literature student at Bolton, you will attend theatre performances, enjoy conversation at the Literature Society, contribute to the school's magazine Creatives Now, develop debating and oracy skills in the prestigious Lit & Deb Society and engage with the creative partnerships offered at school and in the wider community. In recent years, we have had many successful students move on to study Literature at University, including colleges of Oxford and Cambridge. You will be taught by highly qualified teachers, all with degrees in Literature and a passion for their subject. Recent results at A Level have been outstanding, with 80% of students achieving A*-A in August 2022. Finally, the course offers an element of independent choice in Component 3, the coursework study. Students are offered agency in text choices under expert supervision and guidance. This is often an element of the course which allows boys to develop academic independence ahead of university study.