This specification provides students with a natural progression from their GCSE study of English Language. It encourages students to develop their interest in and appreciation of English, through learning about its structures, functions, developments and variations. It also allows students to develop their ability to express themselves in both written and spoken forms and produce texts for different audiences and purposes. English Language qualifications are desirable as an entry to many different careers. These may include: Marketing, Journalism, Education, Film Production, Media Studies, Creative Writing and Social Sciences. All courses at Walsall Academy are designed to provide academic and vocational experiences. They will prepare students for their choice of career in both the world of work and Higher Education. Key Stage 5 students take advantage of opportunities such as visiting the British Library in London and Samuel Johnson’s birthplace in Lichfield. We have also visited the Universities of Warwick, Aston and Birmingham where students have attended lectures on aspects of English Language that aid and develop their studies. Many students participate in our literacy programmes helping younger students with reading and writing. The English department also provides extra-curricular activities, such as debate club, which engage students in learning beyond the confines of their subjects.