Course Overview
This course is designed to enable you to achieve a GCSE English Language qualification. You will have the opportunity to read a variety of literary and non-fiction texts from a range of time periods, developing independent and critical reading skills.
You will acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language. Your skills will also enable you to write effectively and coherently using Standard English appropriately, use grammar correctly and punctuate and spell accurately.
Adults over 19 who do not have a GCSE grade 4/C or above in either English or Maths are entitled to study these courses for free. Our GCSE courses for adults are classroom-based and run from September to June each year.
Students who have achieved a grade D (new grade 3) at GCSE will study GCSE English Language with the aim of improving their grade. Those with a grade E (new grade 2) or lower in English Language will normally study the Functional Skills pre-GCSE English course first.
Topics may include:
- Text features
- Punctuation
- Grammar
- Fiction and non-fiction texts, including multimodal and media material
- Class and group discussion
- Research tasks.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is either through Unit 1 and Unit 2 exams, plus Speaking & Listening or Unit 1 exam and Unit 2 Personal Project, plus Speaking & Listening. You will be given detailed information about these exams during your first week.
Progression Options
English and maths are core subjects, and open pathways to every industry and progression route. On successful completion, you could progress to a range of other courses or employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
