Free GCSE English Language Course in Carlisle

CostFREE
Duration33 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

About this course

Free GCSE English Language Course in Carlisle. Classes run at Carlisle College, part-time during the day over 33 weeks.

The course covers reading and analysing fiction and non-fiction texts, writing clearly and effectively, and spoken English. You'll study two exam papers: one focused on fiction, one on non-fiction. Both papers assess reading and writing together. You'll also complete some work independently at home and online between sessions.

The course is for adults aged 19 or over. You'll sit an initial assessment to check the level is right for you. You'll finish with a GCSE in English Language.

Who this course is for

This course is aimed at learners aged 19 plus who have or can achieve a level 1 in an inital assessment in English Language

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 19+ years of age.Places are offered on an individual basis, but we generally require you to gain a Level 1 in the initial assessment. If this isn't achieved, we may offer you an alternative course such as Functional Skill

What you will learn

  • You'll read and analyse a range of fiction texts.
  • You'll read and analyse non-fiction and media texts.
  • You'll write clearly and effectively for different purposes and audiences.
  • You'll develop your spoken English and communication skills.
  • You'll practise exam technique for both reading and writing papers.
  • You'll build independent study skills through home and online tasks.

How you will learn

You'll attend one taught session per week, lasting two hours and 45 minutes with a short break. Classes are classroom based at Carlisle College. Between sessions, you'll complete work independently at home and online. Assessment is by two written exams: Paper 1 covers fiction reading and writing, Paper 2 covers non-fiction reading and writing. You'll also be assessed on your spoken English skills.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Carlisle College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service advisor, communicates clearly with customers in writing and in person.
  • Administrative assistant, prepares documents, emails, and reports for an employer.
  • Healthcare support worker, records patient information and communicates with care teams.
  • Retail supervisor, handles written communications and staff briefings.
  • Teaching assistant, supports pupils with reading and writing tasks in school.
  • Call centre agent, uses strong written and spoken English daily.

What you could study next

  • A Level English Language or English Literature, for those who want to study English at a higher level.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma or BTEC, where GCSE English is often an entry requirement.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma, a route into university for adults, usually requiring GCSE English.
  • Functional Skills English Level 2, an alternative qualification at the same level if you need a more flexible route.

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