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A Level English Language in Bristol for 16 to 18 Year Olds – Winterbourne Academy

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. Full-time daytime classes run at Winterbourne Academy over two years. This 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. It builds on GCSE English but takes a very different approach. You'll need four to five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, to enrol.

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 language is used across different contexts and text types.
  • You'll apply linguistic concepts and methods to written and spoken English.
  • You'll study how language varies by region, social group, and situation.
  • You'll examine how language changes over time.
  • You'll investigate how children acquire language.
  • You'll produce your own original writing and commentary, applying what you've learned.
  • You'll develop skills in data-based language research.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Winterbourne Academy, working with texts, language data, and analytical frameworks. AQA assesses this qualification through written examinations and a non-exam assessment component, which includes original writing and a language investigation. There is no coursework portfolio in the traditional sense; the non-exam assessment is completed during the course and submitted for marking.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Winterbourne Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Journalist: research and write for print, digital, or broadcast media.
  • Copywriter: create content for brands, agencies, or in-house teams.
  • Communications officer: manage messaging for organisations or public bodies.
  • Editorial assistant: support publishing teams with writing and proofreading.
  • Marketing executive: develop campaigns using strong written communication.
  • Teacher (with further training): English at secondary or further education level.
  • Content strategist: plan and produce digital content for organisations.

What you could study next

An A Level English Language qualification opens routes into higher education and professional training.

  • BA English Language or Linguistics: degree-level study of language, communication, and society.
  • BA English Literature or Combined Honours: if you want to pair language study with literary texts.
  • BA Journalism or Media Studies: combines language skills with media practice.
  • PGCE in English (after a degree): qualified teacher status for secondary English.
  • BA Communications or Marketing: applies language skills to professional contexts.

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