English - GCSE Summary Where can this subject lead? Key information What will I learn? How will I learn? How will I be assessed? Summary Having GCSE English is critical to improving your employment prospects and maximising your earning potential. In this course students will develop the necessary skills to be a successful communicator and enhance their confidence in all aspects of English, including reading, writing and comprehension. With the help and guidance of expert tutors, students will explore creative and transactional writing, develop critical thinking and improve reading skills. Students will also have the opportunity to explore a range of contemporary texts from across the centuries, further developing the skills needed for understanding and evaluating meaning in texts. Fully funded or no upfront course fees Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for financial support to help you with your studies which could include having your course fees paid and additional help with living expenses. Next course dates Start date Location Duration 09 Sep 2025 Bispham Campus 1 Year Apply now 12 Jan 2026 Bispham Campus 1 Year Apply now Where can this subject lead? Career progression An English GCSE is often a minimum requirement for many further education, higher education and job role specifications. This is because it provides one of the strongest foundations for success in these scenarios. English is the language of business and one of the most spoken worldwide. In fact, having a Level 2 qualification or above in English and maths is shown to have a significant impact on lifetime earning potential when compared to someone who has only achieved below this level. Key information Entry Requirements This course is designed for 19+ students looking to improve their English skills who want to gain a GCSE qualification or improve the grade that they originally received. To be accepted on the course you will either need a grade D or a grade 3 at GCSE or Functional Skills at Level 2 in English. If you do not have either of these qualifications, we can offer you an initial assessment where you will need to achieve at least 70% to be offered a place on the course. Fees and fundingPlease read our tuition fee guide for adult learners. Extra costs and equipmentYou will need to bring the following items to class: A4 notepad or exercise book Folder or ring binder Pens and highlighters Dictionary We also recommend the following textbook for the course: Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) English Language 2.0 Revision Guide & Workbook. Regulation and AccreditationAccrediting Institution: N/A Awarding Body: AQA Terms and conditionsRead our full terms and conditions for more information. What will I learn? Industry placement, field trips and guest speakersThere are no placements or field trips on this course. How will I learn? Developing a deep and varied understanding of written and spoken English is at the heart of this qualification. You will read and analyse both fiction and non-fiction texts and develop skills to improve your ability to critically assess various types of writing from news articles through to classic literature. You will be encouraged to examine word choice, style, tone, dialogue, imagery and metaphor to make a full assessment of the works you encounter and use this analysis to inform your transactional writing skills. You will be introduced to a range of non-fiction writing techniques and be given the opportunity to practise these together with the development of planning and proofreading skills. The overarching aim of the course is to improve your skills as a spoken and written communicator who is confident using these skills in a range of different business contexts. Students will experience a variety of different teaching styles and learning methods whilst studying GCSE English. Students are encouraged to take an active role in the classroom, rather than taking part in more passive activities such as listening to a lecture. There are lots of opportunities for discussions with peers and teachers, and students will be encouraged to ask questions and discuss their work. Students can expect to use a variety of digital platforms to enhance their learning experience, such as: Century, Canvas and Microsoft Teams. The course tutors will provide students with login details for online resources to aid them in their studies. Students can expect to be given homework and feedback on a regular basis. Expert tutorsAll staff involved in the delivery of adult education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice. How will I be assessed? How will I be assessed?You must complete all elements of the course to achieve the qualification. There are two end of year examinations, which are 1 hour 55 minutes each. In both exams students will complete a reading and writing section. Each exam is worth 50% of the GCSE. Spoken Language skills are also assessed by means of a presentation to enhance and assess students’ communications skills. Throughout the year, students will complete in-class assessments to monitor progress and receive regular feedback to improve skills needed for the end examinations. All in-class assessments will match the standard and style of the final examinations so that students are fully prepared.