English Literature

Course summary

English Literature at A-level is an intellectually lively and challenging discipline that can be combined successfully with all subjects. This two-year course will appeal to those who take pleasure in reading a wide variety of literature, who enjoy expressing their opinions and developing independent ideas, who would be stimulated by a subject that draws upon their other academic interests, and who want to keep their options open for further study. English Literature is a popular qualification for a wide range of courses in higher education and is highly regarded by employers in many competitive fields. The course develops skills that are useful in all careers: the understanding of how to read critically and discerningly, and the ability to write and speak accurately, persuasively and with confidence in one’s judgments. Ideally, candidates should have a good IGCSE in the subject but, even with a modest grade, they will have a reasonable chance of securing a respectable A-level grade, given adequate commitment over the two-year course. English seeks to foster creative talent as well as academic success, and boys are encouraged to enter a range of competitions throughout the year and to submit work for the creative-writing magazine. The L P Hartley Society for Creative Writing fosters the talents of those boys who are serious about writing. The Sheridan Society invites writers and lecturers to the School, organises trips and other reading-related events, and also encourages Sixth Form boys to give talks on topics of their choice.