Tutor Subject: English

All students in the UK will study English at primary and secondary level, including at GCSE. However, at upper secondary level some students may also choose to study either GCSE English Language and/or GCSE English Literature. Some students may choose to study English at A level and then perhaps go on to study it at degree level when they go to university. The overarching aim for English in the national curriculum is to promote high standards of language and literacy…
Read more…d literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written language, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment.

The national curriculum for English aims to ensure that all pupils:

  • read easily, fluently and with good understanding
  • develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information
  • acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
  • appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage
  • write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences
  • use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas
  • are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.

Studying English at GCSE involves responding to fictional and non-fictional texts, and the English Language exams also involve writing fiction and non-fiction texts.

The focus of English Literature A level is the study of novels, poetry and plays, though it also can include prose other than fiction such as biography, travel writing, essays and scripts for films or television.

The central method of this study is close textual analysis, but also you will read texts using the tools of historical contextualisation and more theoretical or philosophical approaches.

At A Level English courses focus on the need to write coherently in a mature and sophisticated style. Additionally, you will develop the skills of textual analysis. The cornerstone of any literary essay is the apt use of references to the source text. These references must then be carefully explained in terms of what they mean and how they achieve that meaning.

A traditional degree in English Literature remains very well respected as a qualification – it is considered a ‘facilitating subject’ – because it requires effective oral and written communication and the ability to synthesise, analyse and evaluate demanding material.

Those wanting to study Literature at university often combine English A level with A levels in Modern Foreign Languages, History, Drama, Philosophy, Politics, Economics, Psychology and Classics.

A degree in English is considered a good grounding for a career in journalism and the media and perhaps essential for those who want to work in publishing. It is not unusual for those who work in the legal profession to have an undergraduate degree in English before converting to study law.

Work in administrating organisations such as theatres and galleries are also often undertaken by those with degrees in English.

A good first port of call for those interested in studying English either at A level and/or at degree level is to visit the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) website.

Featured tutor Tess, tutor number TUT491

Featured Tutor: Tess

Location: Threehammer Common and also offers online tuition

I have worked in education since 1990, a teacher for ten years with many years guiding and overseeing learning development in a variety of contexts. I have taught at secondary level as a Drama teacher and GCSE exams co-ordinator, and within the Primary sector as a supply teacher. I have also undertaken placements in Secondary …

Featured tutor Philip, tutor number TTT495

Featured Tutor: Philip

Location: Online tuition only

I have taught English as a Foreign Language to individuals and in small groups, primarily to Japanese adults and children from 5 to 15. I have also taught children and adults in Israel, Greece and Italy. I can proofread “plus” (i.e. to include some editing and comments) and this could be up to undergraduate level …

Featured tutor Michele, tutor number TUT1007

Featured Tutor: Michele

Location: Holt and also offers online tuition

Secondary school English teacher with over twenty years’ experience. I specialize in GCSE and A’level English Literature, and also in helping students at every level feel confident and achieve independence as readers and writers.

Featured tutor Lana, tutor number TTT775

Featured Tutor: Lana

Location: Online tuition only

I offer online homeschool instruction and tutoring in multiple subjects. I am available to teach and/or tutor mathematics, physics, French, English, Spanish, and other subjects. I am available to work with students individually and to teach classes of up to 10 students. I am also available to assist students in preparing for the SAT, ACT, …

Featured tutor Keir, tutor number TUT838

Featured Tutor: Keir

Location: Norwich

I am offering tutoring in Music, both academically and practically (lessons in singing, cello, and piano all to grade 8 standard), as well as offering English tuition across a range of ages, focusing on English Literature at GCSE and A Level standard. Currently undertaking my second year of a Choral Scholarship at Norwich Cathedral. Tutoring …

Featured tutor Josh, tutor number TTT340

Featured Tutor: Josh

Location: Online tuition only

Students and parents have offered positive feedback from the results attained after my tuition including a great improvement in their grade and confidence. I find I can relate to students in a calm and patient manner and I have enjoyed helping them through difficulties with their subjects. I endeavour to find and solve the problems …

Featured tutor Sandra, tutor number 1071

Featured Tutor: Sandra

Location: Holt and also offers online tuition

I have over twenty years’ teaching experience and have held a number of teaching positions. In 1988 I effectively established and taught in a Nursery Unit in my village. I have enjoyed the roles of Reading and Art co-ordinator and have also been involved in musical productions as well as effectively undertaking day to day …

Featured tutor Jane, tutor number TUT687

Featured Tutor: Jane

Location: Norwich and also offers online tuition

I have been tutoring for fifteen years, sometimes tutoring up to 20 learners a week, and have tutored at a range of levels from primary through to university students, although most of my work has been with GCSE students across a range of exam boards. I am a friendly and professional tutor and find I …