This intensive English Language GCSE course at City Lit is designed for adults aiming to strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills to a nationally recognised standard. Through the...
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Our GCSE English Language course, accredited by AQA, is designed to develop your reading, writing, and analytical skills. The course covers a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, helping you to read, understand, and analyse various forms of literature and non-fiction.
Important Notice for Prospective Students
Enrolment process:
Please note that enrolment on this course has a 2-stage process.
A written reading and writing initial assessment
A short 10–15-minute interview with one of our assessors.
This process is important as the course is demanding and requires a high level of commitment. We want to ensure that you are well-prepared and can achieve your true potential.
Funding eligibility:
Students are eligible to complete only one Level 2 qualification for free, either GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2. If you choose to complete Functional Skills Level 2 first, you can NOT then proceed to complete the GCSE for free.
What will we cover?
Course Structure:
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Weighting: 50% of the total grade
Sections:
Section A: Reading one literature fiction text
Section B: Writing a descriptive or narrative piece
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Weighting: 50% of the total grade
Sections:
Section A: Reading one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text
Section B: Writing to present a viewpoint
Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language
Requirement: One presentation/speech, including responses to questions and feedback
The National exams for this course are on
Paper 1: 21st May 2026
Paper 2: 5th of June 2026
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
Read and Understand Texts: Analyse and interpret a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, including literature and non-fiction.
Write Clearly and Coherently: Produce clear, coherent, and accurate writing using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures.
Develop Critical Thinking: Evaluate and compare writers' viewpoints and perspectives across different texts.
Enhance Creative Skills: Use narrative and descriptive techniques to engage readers in your writing.
Present and Communicate Effectively: Deliver a spoken presentation, responding to questions and feedback confidently.
These skills will not only prepare you for further academic pursuits but also equip you with essential life skills for future employment.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The GCSE English Language course is a Level 2 qualification, suitable for students working towards this level. It is designed to develop essential skills in reading, writing, and critical thinking.
Basic Literacy Skills: You should be able to read and write at a basic level.
Commitment and Motivation: The course is demanding and requires dedication and consistent effort.
Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyse texts and understand different viewpoints.
Communication Skills: Willingness to participate in discussions and present ideas clearly.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will learn in a supportive and welcoming environment work both independently and collaboratively with others. Your course will be taught onsite at the college with the following dates for mock exams and 6 revision sessions which take place on a Saturday twice a term. The Saturday sessions are to prepare you for your mock exams and in Term 3 the final exam.
Mock 1- 11/12/25
Mock 2- 5/03/26
Revision sessions:
Term 1 22/11/25 =Saturday 10am-1pm AND 29/11/25 = Saturday 10am-1pm
Term 2 14/02/26 =Saturday 10am-1pm AND 21/02/26 = Saturday 10am-1pm
Term 3 21/03/26 =Saturday 10am-1pm Online AND 216/05/26 = Saturday 10am-1pm Online
Google Classroom is an essential part of your learning, course learning material, communication and independent learning is accessed via this platform.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher or Functional Skills Level 2 in English. You will need a pen, some lined A4 paper and a folder to keep your work in. Your tutor will provide handouts and worksheets.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Completing a GCSE in English opens the door to a wide range of Level 3 qualifications, such as:
A-levels (e.g. English Literature, Sociology, Psychology, Media Studies)
Access to Higher Education Diplomas (ideal for adults returning to study and aiming for university)
Undergraduate degrees in fields like English, Education, Journalism, or Social Sciences
Foundation degrees or Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) as stepping stones to full degree
Apply for administrative, retail, or customer service roles
Qualify for apprenticeships in areas like business, healthcare, or digital marketing
Improve your CV and interview skills by demonstrating strong communication abilities
If you're interested in education, this qualification is a key step toward:
Becoming a Teaching Assistant
Training as an Adult Literacy Tutor
Pursuing a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) in the future
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/english-language-gcse288465English language GCSEhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/no_selection599599GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Skills for life/Courses/Skills for life/English skills/Courses/Skills for life/English skills/GCSE English/Courses/Courses leading to a qualification/Courses/Courses to boost your career/Courses/Courses to boost your career/Skills & employability228513641365136918371349013505122851364136513490<p>This intensive English Language GCSE course at City Lit is designed for adults aiming to strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills to a nationally recognised standard. Through the exploration of diverse texts from the 19th to 21st centuries, learners will develop the ability to interpret, critique, and craft written content with clarity and precision. The course also enhances spoken communication and grammar proficiency, preparing students for academic progression or improved career prospects. Structured support, regular assessments, and digital learning tools ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. </p> <br />
<p><p><strong>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher in English. For more information <a href="https://help.citylit.ac.uk/hc/en-gb/articles/13719595494045-Free-Basic-English-Math-Digital-Skills-Courses">Click here</a></strong><p></p>001185145English language GCSE599599https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/no_selectionInStockEveningThuKeeley StreetStarted: last chance to book11 weeks or longerWeekday2025-09-11T00:00:00+00:00AdvancedSep 2025Skills for lifeAC103599599English language GCSE00599english-language-gcse/ac103-2526<p>This intensive English Language GCSE course at City Lit is designed for adults aiming to strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills to a nationally recognised standard. Through the exploration of diverse texts from the 19th to 21st centuries, learners will develop the ability to interpret, critique, and craft written content with clarity and precision. The course also enhances spoken communication and grammar proficiency, preparing students for academic progression or improved career prospects. Structured support, regular assessments, and digital learning tools ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. </p> <br />
<p><p><strong>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher in English. For more information <a href="https://help.citylit.ac.uk/hc/en-gb/articles/13719595494045-Free-Basic-English-Math-Digital-Skills-Courses">Click here</a></strong><p></p>0010-StartedAvailable|2025-09-11 00:00:00<p>Our GCSE English Language course, accredited by AQA, is designed to develop your reading, writing, and analytical skills. The course covers a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, helping you to read, understand, and analyse various forms of literature and non-fiction. </p><p><strong>Important Notice for Prospective Students </strong></p><p><strong>Enrolment process: </strong></p><p> Please note that enrolment on this course has a 2-stage process. </p><ol><li><p>A written reading and writing initial assessment </p></li></ol><ol><li><p>A short 10–15-minute interview with one of our assessors. </p></li></ol><p>This process is important as the course is demanding and requires a high level of commitment. We want to ensure that you are well-prepared and can achieve your true potential. </p><p><strong>Funding eligibility: </strong></p><p>Students are eligible to complete <strong>only one</strong> Level 2 qualification for free, either GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2. If you choose to complete Functional Skills Level 2 first, you can <strong>NOT</strong> then proceed to complete the GCSE for free. </p><p>This intensive English Language GCSE course at City Lit is designed for adults aiming to strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills to a nationally recognised standard. Through the exploration of diverse texts from the 19th to 21st centuries, learners will develop the ability to interpret, critique, and craft written content with clarity and precision. The course also enhances spoken communication and grammar proficiency, preparing students for academic progression or improved career prospects. Structured support, regular assessments, and digital learning tools ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. </p> <br /><br /><br /><br />
<p><p><strong>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher in English. For more information <a href="https://help.citylit.ac.uk/hc/en-gb/articles/13719595494045-Free-Basic-English-Math-Digital-Skills-Courses">Click here</a></strong><p></p><p><strong>Course Structure: </strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing </strong></p></li></ul><p><strong>Duration: </strong>1 hour 45 minutes </p><p><strong>Weighting:</strong> 50% of the total grade </p><p><strong>Sections: </strong></p><p><strong> Section A:</strong> Reading one literature fiction text </p><p><strong> Section B:</strong> Writing a descriptive or narrative piece </p><ul><li><p><strong>Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives </strong></p></li></ul><p><strong>Duration:</strong> 1 hour 45 minutes </p><p><strong>Weighting:</strong> 50% of the total grade </p><p><strong> Sections: </strong></p><p><strong> Section A: </strong>Reading one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text </p><p><strong> Section B: </strong>Writing to present a viewpoint </p><ul><li><p><strong>Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language </strong></p></li></ul><p><strong>Requirement:</strong> One presentation/speech, including responses to questions and feedback </p><p>The National exams for this course are on </p><p>Paper 1: 21st May 2026 </p><p>Paper 2: 5th of June 2026 </p><p> </p><p>By the end of this course, you should be able to: </p><ul><li><p><strong>Read and Understand Texts</strong>: Analyse and interpret a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, including literature and non-fiction. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Write Clearly and Coherently</strong>: Produce clear, coherent, and accurate writing using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Develop Critical Thinking</strong>: Evaluate and compare writers' viewpoints and perspectives across different texts. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Enhance Creative Skills</strong>: Use narrative and descriptive techniques to engage readers in your writing. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Present and Communicate Effectively</strong>: Deliver a spoken presentation, responding to questions and feedback confidently. </p></li></ul><p>These skills will not only prepare you for further academic pursuits but also equip you with essential life skills for future employment. </p><p>The GCSE English Language course is a <strong>Level 2 qualification</strong>, suitable for students working towards this level. It is designed to develop essential skills in reading, writing, and critical thinking. </p><p><strong>Basic Literacy Skills</strong>: You should be able to read and write at a basic level. </p><ul><li><p><strong>Commitment and Motivation</strong>: The course is demanding and requires dedication and consistent effort. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Analytical Thinking</strong>: Ability to analyse texts and understand different viewpoints. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Communication Skills</strong>: Willingness to participate in discussions and present ideas clearly. </p></li></ul><p>You will learn in a supportive and welcoming environment work both independently and collaboratively with others. Your course will be taught onsite at the college with the following dates for mock exams and 6 revision sessions which take place on a Saturday twice a term. The Saturday sessions are to prepare you for your mock exams and in Term 3 the final exam. </p><p>Mock 1- 11/12/25 </p><p>Mock 2- 5/03/26 </p><p><strong>Revision sessions</strong>: </p><p>Term 1 22/11/25 =Saturday 10am-1pm AND 29/11/25 = Saturday 10am-1pm </p><p>Term 2 14/02/26 =Saturday 10am-1pm AND 21/02/26 = Saturday 10am-1pm </p><p>Term 3 21/03/26 =Saturday 10am-1pm Online AND 216/05/26 = Saturday 10am-1pm Online </p><p>Google Classroom is an essential part of your learning, course learning material, communication and independent learning is accessed via this platform. </p><p>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher or Functional Skills Level 2 in English. You will need a pen, some lined A4 paper and a folder to keep your work in. Your tutor will provide handouts and worksheets. </p><p>Completing a GCSE in English opens the door to a wide range of <strong>Level 3 qualifications</strong>, such as: </p><ul><li><p><strong>A-levels</strong> (e.g. English Literature, Sociology, Psychology, Media Studies) </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Access to Higher Education Diplomas </strong>(ideal for adults returning to study and aiming for university) </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Undergraduate degrees</strong> in fields like English, Education, Journalism, or Social Sciences </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Foundation degrees </strong>or<strong> Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) </strong>as stepping stones to full degree </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Apply for<strong> administrative, retail, or customer service roles </strong></p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Qualify for <strong>apprenticeships</strong> in areas like business, healthcare, or digital marketing </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Improve your <strong>CV and interview skills </strong>by demonstrating strong communication abilities </p></li></ul><p>If you're interested in education, this qualification is a key step toward: </p><ul><li><p>Becoming a <strong>Teaching Assistant</strong> </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Training as an <strong>Adult Literacy Tutor</strong> </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Pursuing a <strong>PGCE</strong> (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) in the future </p></li></ul>English skillsGCSE Englishvirtual05990AC103INTXThu11/09/25 - 28/05/2618:00 - 21:0018:0021:0039 sessions (over 38 weeks)3911 weeks or longerEveningWeekdayKSKeeley StreetAdvancedStarted: last chance to book2025-09-11T00:00:00+00:00Sep 2025Skills for life599599English language GCSEenglish-language-gcse/ac103-2526<p>This intensive English Language GCSE course at City Lit is designed for adults aiming to strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills to a nationally recognised standard. Through the exploration of diverse texts from the 19th to 21st centuries, learners will develop the ability to interpret, critique, and craft written content with clarity and precision. The course also enhances spoken communication and grammar proficiency, preparing students for academic progression or improved career prospects. Structured support, regular assessments, and digital learning tools ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. </p> <br />
<p><p><strong>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher in English. For more information <a href="https://help.citylit.ac.uk/hc/en-gb/articles/13719595494045-Free-Basic-English-Math-Digital-Skills-Courses">Click here</a></strong><p></p>0010-StartedAvailable|2025-09-11 00:00:00<p>Our GCSE English Language course, accredited by AQA, is designed to develop your reading, writing, and analytical skills. The course covers a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, helping you to read, understand, and analyse various forms of literature and non-fiction. </p><p><strong>Important Notice for Prospective Students </strong></p><p><strong>Enrolment process: </strong></p><p> Please note that enrolment on this course has a 2-stage process. </p><ol><li><p>A written reading and writing initial assessment </p></li></ol><ol><li><p>A short 10–15-minute interview with one of our assessors. </p></li></ol><p>This process is important as the course is demanding and requires a high level of commitment. We want to ensure that you are well-prepared and can achieve your true potential. </p><p><strong>Funding eligibility: </strong></p><p>Students are eligible to complete <strong>only one</strong> Level 2 qualification for free, either GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2. If you choose to complete Functional Skills Level 2 first, you can <strong>NOT</strong> then proceed to complete the GCSE for free. </p><p>This intensive English Language GCSE course at City Lit is designed for adults aiming to strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills to a nationally recognised standard. Through the exploration of diverse texts from the 19th to 21st centuries, learners will develop the ability to interpret, critique, and craft written content with clarity and precision. The course also enhances spoken communication and grammar proficiency, preparing students for academic progression or improved career prospects. Structured support, regular assessments, and digital learning tools ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. </p> <br /><br /><br /><br />
<p><p><strong>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher in English. For more information <a href="https://help.citylit.ac.uk/hc/en-gb/articles/13719595494045-Free-Basic-English-Math-Digital-Skills-Courses">Click here</a></strong><p></p><p><strong>Course Structure: </strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing </strong></p></li></ul><p><strong>Duration: </strong>1 hour 45 minutes </p><p><strong>Weighting:</strong> 50% of the total grade </p><p><strong>Sections: </strong></p><p><strong> Section A:</strong> Reading one literature fiction text </p><p><strong> Section B:</strong> Writing a descriptive or narrative piece </p><ul><li><p><strong>Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives </strong></p></li></ul><p><strong>Duration:</strong> 1 hour 45 minutes </p><p><strong>Weighting:</strong> 50% of the total grade </p><p><strong> Sections: </strong></p><p><strong> Section A: </strong>Reading one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text </p><p><strong> Section B: </strong>Writing to present a viewpoint </p><ul><li><p><strong>Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language </strong></p></li></ul><p><strong>Requirement:</strong> One presentation/speech, including responses to questions and feedback </p><p>The National exams for this course are on </p><p>Paper 1: 21st May 2026 </p><p>Paper 2: 5th of June 2026 </p><p> </p><p>By the end of this course, you should be able to: </p><ul><li><p><strong>Read and Understand Texts</strong>: Analyse and interpret a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, including literature and non-fiction. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Write Clearly and Coherently</strong>: Produce clear, coherent, and accurate writing using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Develop Critical Thinking</strong>: Evaluate and compare writers' viewpoints and perspectives across different texts. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Enhance Creative Skills</strong>: Use narrative and descriptive techniques to engage readers in your writing. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Present and Communicate Effectively</strong>: Deliver a spoken presentation, responding to questions and feedback confidently. </p></li></ul><p>These skills will not only prepare you for further academic pursuits but also equip you with essential life skills for future employment. </p><p>The GCSE English Language course is a <strong>Level 2 qualification</strong>, suitable for students working towards this level. It is designed to develop essential skills in reading, writing, and critical thinking. </p><p><strong>Basic Literacy Skills</strong>: You should be able to read and write at a basic level. </p><ul><li><p><strong>Commitment and Motivation</strong>: The course is demanding and requires dedication and consistent effort. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Analytical Thinking</strong>: Ability to analyse texts and understand different viewpoints. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Communication Skills</strong>: Willingness to participate in discussions and present ideas clearly. </p></li></ul><p>You will learn in a supportive and welcoming environment work both independently and collaboratively with others. Your course will be taught onsite at the college with the following dates for mock exams and 6 revision sessions which take place on a Saturday twice a term. The Saturday sessions are to prepare you for your mock exams and in Term 3 the final exam. </p><p>Mock 1- 11/12/25 </p><p>Mock 2- 5/03/26 </p><p><strong>Revision sessions</strong>: </p><p>Term 1 22/11/25 =Saturday 10am-1pm AND 29/11/25 = Saturday 10am-1pm </p><p>Term 2 14/02/26 =Saturday 10am-1pm AND 21/02/26 = Saturday 10am-1pm </p><p>Term 3 21/03/26 =Saturday 10am-1pm Online AND 216/05/26 = Saturday 10am-1pm Online </p><p>Google Classroom is an essential part of your learning, course learning material, communication and independent learning is accessed via this platform. </p><p>This course is free for learners who have not achieved a GCSE grade C (4) and higher or Functional Skills Level 2 in English. You will need a pen, some lined A4 paper and a folder to keep your work in. Your tutor will provide handouts and worksheets. </p><p>Completing a GCSE in English opens the door to a wide range of <strong>Level 3 qualifications</strong>, such as: </p><ul><li><p><strong>A-levels</strong> (e.g. English Literature, Sociology, Psychology, Media Studies) </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Access to Higher Education Diplomas </strong>(ideal for adults returning to study and aiming for university) </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Undergraduate degrees</strong> in fields like English, Education, Journalism, or Social Sciences </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Foundation degrees </strong>or<strong> Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) </strong>as stepping stones to full degree </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Apply for<strong> administrative, retail, or customer service roles </strong></p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Qualify for <strong>apprenticeships</strong> in areas like business, healthcare, or digital marketing </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Improve your <strong>CV and interview skills </strong>by demonstrating strong communication abilities </p></li></ul><p>If you're interested in education, this qualification is a key step toward: </p><ul><li><p>Becoming a <strong>Teaching Assistant</strong> </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Training as an <strong>Adult Literacy Tutor</strong> </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Pursuing a <strong>PGCE</strong> (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) in the future </p></li></ul>English skillsGCSE Englishconfigurable
13691365GCSE Englishhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/essential-skills/english/english-gcse1/2/285/1364/1365/13691/Courses/Skills for life/English skills/GCSE English
