A Level English Language in Bristol for 16 to 18 Year Olds – Bradley Stoke Community School South Gloucestershire

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

Free A Level English Language course in Bristol. Classes run at Bradley Stoke Community School South Gloucestershire, with full-time daytime study over two years. The course is an introduction to linguistics: you'll study how English works across different forms and contexts, analysing texts and language data using concepts and methods drawn from the discipline. Entry requires 4 to 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English. The level 3 a level english language qualification opens doors to university and a wide range of careers.

Who this course is for

Those students who are curious about the construction of the English language. With exciting text and data-based sources of language, the specification introduces the study of English in its various forms and contexts. Concepts and methods appropriate for the analysis of language underpin all elements of the course. This course allows students to build on the skills already gained at GCSE. However, it is nothing like your GCSE course. It is essentially an introduction to linguistics and is a fascinating insight into language and how it works within our society.The variety of assessment styles used, such as data analysis, discursive essays, directed writing, original writing and research-based investigative writing, allows students to develop a wide range of skills. These include critical reading, data analysis, evaluation, the ability to develop and sustain arguments, and a number of different writing skills which are invaluable for both further study and future employment.

‘Languages should be thought of as national treasures, and treated accordingly’ (Professor David Crystal- Language academic).

‘The field of linguistics includes both science and the humanities, and offers a breadth of coverage that, for many aspiring students of the subject, is the primary source of its appeal’ (Professor David Crystal- Language academic).

Entry requirements

4-5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above including English

What you will learn

  • You'll analyse how English is used across different contexts and situations.
  • You'll study the structure of the English language, including grammar, phonology, and discourse.
  • You'll apply linguistic concepts and methods to written and spoken texts.
  • You'll investigate language data and draw evidence-based conclusions.
  • You'll explore how language varies across social groups, regions, and time.
  • You'll develop extended writing skills through essays and analytical responses.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, text analysis, and language data work. Assessment is by written examinations and a non-exam assessment component, which typically involves original writing or a language investigation. AQA sets and marks the external exams. Your teacher will assess the non-exam component internally, with AQA moderation.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bradley Stoke Community School South Gloucestershire will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Journalist: research, write, and edit for print or digital media.
  • Copywriter: produce written content for brands and organisations.
  • Content writer: create articles, blogs, and web copy.
  • Communications officer: manage messaging for businesses or public bodies.
  • Marketing executive: write and coordinate campaigns across channels.
  • Editorial assistant: support publishing teams with writing and proofreading.
  • Teacher (with further training): teach English at secondary level.

What you could study next

  • BA English Language or Linguistics: the natural next step if you want to study language at degree level.
  • BA English Literature or Combined Honours: broadens into literary study alongside language.
  • BA Journalism or Media Studies: builds directly on analytical and writing skills.
  • BA Education: a route toward teaching, often combined with a subject specialism.
  • Many universities accept the a level english language qualification as part of standard entry requirements across humanities and social science degrees.