In Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13) we study the Cambridge AS and A2 syllabuses in English Literature. In Year 12 we study for the AS Level, which includes the topics of poetry, drama and fiction. A grade is awarded for the examination which is taken at the end of Year 12.

In Year 13 we study for the A2 Level. Again the syllabus comprises of poetry, drama and fiction and the examination is taken at the end of Year 13.

All marking in Years 12 and 13 is based on the AS/A2 Level marking criteria and takes the form of a grade from A downwards.

We recognise that the step from IGCSE to AS level is neither straightforward nor easy for many students. The English Department takes very seriously the need to support students in making this transition and to encourage them to take an increasing responsibility for their own progress. This not only involves fostering a mature approach towards their study, but also ensuring that they are reading around the subject independently in order to support the teacher led lessons that they are attending. We would strongly advise candidates who are looking for a good grade in this subject to be reading criticisms of the literature that they are studying. It is a clear expectation that students of English Literature at AS/A2 Level are enthusiastic about books and are not intimidated by extensive reading of texts that may be quite challenging.