GCSE English Language & Literature

English Language (AQA 8700) develops reading and writing across two papers, supported by a spoken language endorsement. English Literature (AQA 8702) covers a Shakespeare play, a 19th-century novel, modern texts and poetry. Set texts include:

• Macbeth
• Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
• An Inspector Calls
• the Power and Conflict poetry anthology

English Language is assessed by two exams: Paper 1, Explorations in creative reading and writing (50%), and Paper 2, Writers' viewpoints and perspectives (50%). English Literature is assessed by Paper 1, Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel (40%), and Paper 2, modern texts, poetry and unseen poetry (60%). The Pearson iGCSE English Language route includes 40% coursework.

Strong English supports every subject and university pathway. Pupils can progress to further English study in the Sixth Form and beyond. For pupils who speak English as an additional language, dedicated support runs alongside the course.

English Language and English Literature are core GCSEs taken by all pupils, so they sit outside the optional blocks. To see how English is taught at Kingsley, book a visit.