This course is the study of everyday language in action.
There are no set texts, we don’t read novels, plays or poems.
Instead, we explore the ways we use language to communicate through both speech and writing
You will have the opportunity to develop your subject expertise by engaging in close text analysis and critically applying both linguistic terminology and a wide range of theories.
Using linguistic concepts and methods, you will analyse a vast range of non-fiction texts, as well as real examples of spoken language – including your own.
You will also develop skills as a producer and interpreter of language by creating texts yourself and critically reflecting on your own processes of production.
Year 1 – AS Level
You will explore three key units:
Linguistic Methods
In this section of the course, we take a close look at the various methods we can use to study both written and spoken language in analytical detail.
This takes the form of the language levels, each of which we explore in turn and apply to a wide range of texts.
Meanings and Representations
In this unit, we explore the various ways text producers use the language levels in order to create meaning and representations with their texts, in order to fulfil specific purposes and address intended audiences.
This raises a huge number of questions and the validity of what is written in the media and allows us to explore the ways we communicate online and the impact of this on our language.
Language Diversity
This unit is an exploration into the varieties of the English language we each use every day.
We will question to what extent factors such as our gender, age, occupation and social class may impact upon both our own language and the language used to address us within wider society.
Year 2 – A Level
In the second year, 20% of the A Level will be made up of your own coursework, entitled Language in Action, as well as studying two further units, Child Language Acquisition and Language Change.
Language in Action
This element of the course allows you to complete your own investigation into an area you are interested in.
This is assessed through three pieces, firstly a 2000 word investigation into an area of language use that you are passionate about.
This can range from an Arctic Monkeys song lyric to the Geordie dialect and allows you to conduct and write up your own research.
You will also write your own 750 word piece of original writing, either to persuade, entertain or inform, alongside a commentary of the same length to justify the linguistic choices you made in your creative piece.
Child Language Acquisition
In this fascinating unit, you will explore the ways we all learn how to talk, read and write.
We will explore a range of theories surrounding child development, as well as looking at the ways this is supported by caregivers, school, children’s books and even television.
As you have all gone through this process yourself, it is interesting to look back and consider exactly how this may have happened.
Language Change
In a world of the internet and rapidly changing technology, this unit takes a very relevant and critical look at the way in which language changes over time and is still evolving.
You will examine the origins of the English Language and the ways the language has changed over time, studying the critical theory behind these changes.
In order to study A-levels with us, all students need to obtain a strong GCSE grade profile, averaging 6 x Grade 6s as well as a Grade 5 in maths. Individual subjects will also have their own specific requirements. In English Language, you will be expected to have a 6 in GCSE English Language and English Literature. However, if you do not meet this profile, please still come to one of our enrolment events to discuss all of your options with a member of our A-level team.
Average grade 6 GCSE profile.
However, if you do not meet this profile please still come to an Enrolment Event to discuss all your options with a member of the A Level Team.
An interview is also required.
You will sit two exams at the end of each year.
You will also complete a 3500 word portfolio of coursework at the end of the second year.
You’ll spend one year at AS Level and one year at A Level.
You can progress to university to study a variety of degrees such as arts or humanities discipline.
Possible careers include:
This course is free to those aged under 19 years old.
Most people aged 19 years and over can qualify for free or reduced price course fees and there are grants and bursaries you can apply for to help cover the costs of coming to college, depending on your circumstances.
If you already have a full level 3 qualification and are aged 19 years over, you can apply for an Advanced Learning Loan or pay the fee upfront in full and qualify for a 10% discount.
You can get more information at our enrolment events, by calling 0191 490 0300 or email us at [email protected]
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college. We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
To contact our dedicated Learning Support team email [email protected] or head to Live Chat
Knowledge
Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Sales and Marketing: Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Median Salary£51,632
Average QualificationsHonours, Bachelor's degree
Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Personnel and Human Resources: Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labour relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Median Salary£64,522
Foreign Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Communications and Media: Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Fine Arts: Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Median Salary£35,212
Median Salary£34,923
Clerical: Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Median Salary£36,266
JOIN OUR SPORTS ACADEMIES
Eight specialist sport academies, all offering first class training, coaching and playing opportunities for everyone, regardless of what you study.
Connect with our Academy socials:
Enrolment Event
Monday 18 May 2026
Say Hello to Rugby
Wednesday 27 May 2026
UPCOMING EVENTS.
Find out about all our upcoming events here. Simply sign up and come along.
View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.