Enrolment for September 2025 will begin in June 2025. Please return to this page then and follow the option to apply process.
Over the 30-week course you will develop your skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening. You will read a variety of texts and develop your analytical skills to explore why a writer has chosen certain words and phrases and the effect of these on the reader. You will learn to write more descriptively and creatively, whilst improving your vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar. You will develop your ability to create a persuasive and compelling argument. Speaking and listening is also developed through class discussion and a speaking assessment of a short presentation. There are two final exam papers and your time will be split between the content of the exams. The first paper is fiction and the second paper is non-fiction.
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Entry requirements
You would normally have a grade D/3 in GCSE English Language, a Level 1 or 2 Functional skills English or equivalent. However, there are no set entry requirements. When you enrol, you will be assessed for suitability and to agree the level you can study. Prior qualifications will be used where appropriate.
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Who is the course for?
These are part-time courses suitable for adults (over 19 years old) who have been out of full-time education for some time. You may not have been able to gain a GCSE at school and this is an opportunity to gain this qualification. Achieving this qualification will increase your confidence and motivation. The skills you gain will be invaluable in the workplace or in any further learning.
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Study methods
You will study for 2.5 hours a week over 30 weeks. You will have access to an online platform called Century which will help you practise your GCSE English skills. You will be given weekly homework via Century and paper-based tasks.
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How is the course assessed?
There are two exam papers in May/June. These are national exams and the dates or times can't be changed. You will be regularly assessed during your course and receive feedback to help you develop the skills required for the external exams. GCSE English Language is assessed in three parts: Paper 1. Explorations in creative reading and writing. (Exam 1 hour 45 mins.) Paper 2. Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives (Exam 1 hour 45 mins.) Speaking and Listening: to be completed in class.
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More information
If you require more information, you can contact Candy White – School Administrator on 01895 471130 (term time only), or the College Information and Guidance team on 01895 853333. For more information, you can email us on
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Where Next – Job Opportunities
Gaining a GCSE English Language 4-9 can provide an entry point into a wide variety of career options.
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Where Next – Further Studies
Your next step might include university entrance, training courses (teaching) or Access courses.
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How to apply
To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit
OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.
