Where will this course lead?

This course is ideal for adults who enjoy reading, writing and thinking critically and creatively, who want to explore literature in greater depth while gaining a respected academic qualification. 

This course will provide you with a recognised A Level qualification in English Literature. There are a wide range of progression opportunities on completion, including Higher Education courses such as English, Creative Writing, Education, Journalism, Publishing and other humanities subjects. 

This course is also ideal if you wish to enhance your career prospects, particularly in roles requiring strong analytical, communication and critical thinking skills, or if you are considering progressing into teaching. 

A-Level English Literature develops advanced reading, writing and evaluation skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.

What will I study?

The course follows the AQA A Level English Literature specification. 

You will study a range of literary texts across different time periods, genres and themes. This may include: 

  • Drama (including Shakespeare) 
  • Poetry (including pre-1900 and modern texts) 
  • Prose (novels and other extended texts) 
  • Comparative and thematic study across texts 
  • Independent critical study (coursework element) 

You will also develop skills in: 

  • Analysing language, structure and form 
  • Constructing detailed written arguments 
  • Exploring historical and social contexts 
  • Applying critical interpretations 

Tutors will support you and model skills in critical reading, annotation of texts, research skills and essay structure. Students will also have full access to the college library, including physical and online resources.

How will this course be delivered?

This course is delivered over 2 years and includes: 

  • Two taught sessions per week during term time (approximately 180 hours per year) 

  • Blended learning approach:  

  • Around 1 in 4 sessions will be face-to-face at Solihull College's Blossomfield Campus 

  • Around 3 in 4 sessions will be delivered online via Microsoft Teams 

Online lessons are fully interactive, with live teaching, group discussion and support from your tutor. 

You will also be expected to complete independent study outside of lessons each week. 

Important: You must have access to: 

  • A laptop or PC 

  • A camera and microphone 

  • A reliable internet connection 

You will be expected to have your camera and microphone switched on during lessons to support participation. 

Students will be expected to read selected texts in their own time/independently, so it is essential that you are a confident and motivated reader. We will, of course, be discussing texts in class. 

We recommend purchasing set texts, study guides for the selected texts and a course guide. We can advise you on affordable purchase options.  

What qualifications will I get?

A-Level English Literature (AQA) 

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is through a combination of: 

  • External examinations at the end of the course (Year 2) 

  • Non-exam assessment (coursework) 

Throughout the course, your progress will be regularly monitored to ensure you are working at the appropriate level and receiving support where needed. 

How do I get a place on the course?

Enquire through the college website and submit your details. 

You will then be asked to complete a short assessment and provide evidence of prior qualifications. Once a place is offered, you will be invited to enrol. 

What are the entry requirements?

  • You must be aged 19 or over 
  • You will need a GCSE English qualification at grade 5 or above (or equivalent) 
  • You will be asked to complete an initial assessment or attend an interview 

What else do I need to know?

This is a new and exciting opportunity for adult learners to progress to a higher-level English qualification in a flexible format. 

Some students living in the West Midlands may be eligible for funding towards course fees. This will be confirmed at the point of application. 

Solihull College offers part-time courses for adults across Birmingham, Solihull and the wider West Midlands region. 

If you have a learning difficulty or disability, please let us know when you apply. Support will be available throughout your studies. 

This course will run subject to a minimum class size and students are expected to attend every lesson. 

What can I do after this course?

An A-Level in English Literature opens up a wide range of opportunities including: 

  • Higher Education study (e.g. English, Education, Journalism, Law, Humanities) 
  • Teacher Training pathways
  • Careers in writing, media, communications and education
  • Progression onto other advanced or professional courses

It is a highly respected qualification that demonstrates strong analytical, written and critical thinking skills. 

Location

Blossomfield Campus

Start Date

14/09/2026

Day

Tuesday, Thursday

Time

16:00-19:00

Course Fee

1987*

Course Code

LAELA121BCP1

Study Mode

Part Time

A-Level English Literature (for Adults)

What’s Involved?

Predicted Employment

How much can I earn?

£17,680
NATIONAL AVERAGE

Employment by Region

The career paths provided are to give you an idea of the careers that you could progress onto in the future. However, for some, you may need to complete higher level qualifications and gain experience before your dream job becomes a reality. The information provided is to support further research and to generate some initial career ideas when choosing a course. Please check entry requirements to degree courses, apprenticeships, and jobs as this may vary from year to year and across providers. For further advice and guidance, please contact: careers@solihull.ac.uk.