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GCSE English Language Course in Birmingham

CostFree if you're eligible
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start31 Aug 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

Free if you're 19 or over and don't have a GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in English, whatever you earn. If you already have one, fees apply. Contact South & City College Birmingham for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

GCSE English Language Course in Birmingham. Classes run full-time at Longbridge Campus, with daytime attendance over one year.

Fees vary depending on your circumstances. Call 0121 694 5001 or visit the website for full fee information. You'll study reading, writing, spoken language, and analysis of fiction and non-fiction texts. The course builds the skills employers and colleges look for in a GCSE English Language qualification.

Entry requires a good standard of English and maths. A grade 3 in GCSE English or Level 2 Functional Skills is expected if you've studied before. You'll sit an assessment before enrolment. You'll finish with a GCSE in English Language.

Who this course is for

Having five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English and maths, is often seen as a standard requirement for many jobs, college and university level courses. This one-year programme is for school leavers who need GCSEs in order to progress, but have not yet achieved the required grades. On this course you will study 5 key subjects at GCSE level. This will give you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills. You will also have the opportunity to take part in field trips relevant to your study and participate in enrichment opportunities. All elements of this course are mandatory. You must be willing to study all 5 subjects, if you already have a C/Grade 4 in one of the subjects we will help you to choose another option. You will also have a personal development session each week and will be expected to undertake some work experience during the year.

Entry requirements

A good standard of English and maths is required to be enrolled on this course; if you have previously studied GCSE we would expect that you have achieved a grade 3 in English, maths and Science or Level 2 Functional Skills.

Please note that you will also be assessed before enrolment to ensure you are ready for this level of study. You will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to your studies by completing homework on a regular basis and have good attendance and punctuality.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and analyse fiction and non-fiction texts.
  • You'll write clearly and accurately for different purposes and audiences.
  • You'll develop your spoken language and communication skills.
  • You'll practise structuring arguments and presenting ideas in writing.
  • You'll build skills in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
  • You'll prepare for two written exams covering reading and writing.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Longbridge Campus. Teaching covers reading, writing, and spoken language. You'll complete regular homework as part of your studies. The AQA GCSE in English Language is assessed by two written exams at the end of the course. There is no coursework component. Spoken language is assessed separately and does not affect your final grade.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Longbridge Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service advisor, strong written English is a common requirement.
  • Administrative assistant, clear written communication is essential for this role.
  • Healthcare support worker, many NHS roles ask for GCSE English at grade 4 or above.
  • Retail supervisor, written skills support stock reporting and team communication.
  • Teaching assistant, schools typically require GCSE English as a minimum.
  • Call centre agent, written and spoken English skills are central to the role.

What you could study next

  • A Levels, the natural next step if you want to study at a higher level.
  • BTEC Level 3 qualifications, a practical route into many careers and higher education.
  • Level 3 apprenticeships, many require GCSE English as an entry condition.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma, leads to university for adults returning to study.
Apply on sccb.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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