Niamh McMillan
English Language
Why did you choose to study English Language A Level at Blue Coat?
I went to Blue Coat School and decided to stay for Sixth Form because of the teachers and because I prefer the set structure of the day, and the more formal environment. I enjoyed English Language and English Literature at GCSE and was torn between studying English Language or Literature at A Level. I spoke to my GCSE teacher about the subject and got great advice and guidance. I used the website to find out more about Sixth Form and I came to the Sixth Form Open Evening and talked to the English teachers. I discovered that creative writing is part of the A Level English Language course and that made me choose Language rather than Literature.
How will use what you have learned from A Level English Language?
My A Level English Language has benefitted my other A Levels in Sociology and RS as I have used the skills I have learnt such as how to write structured essays. I didn’t have a career in mind when choosing A Levels, I just knew I wanted to stick with English. I am hoping to go to university to study English and Creative Writing with a view to a career in either marketing or journalism.
What have enjoyed about studying English Language A Level?
I have enjoyed learning about dialects and how regional accents impact on how you are viewed as a person. The course teaches you a lot about communication like standard vs non-standard English including language in emails and other forms of communication. The skills I learnt helped me write for our Blue Coat Humanities magazine. I wrote an article in newspaper style on creative writing pieces, putting into practice what I had learned. My self-confidence to present and speak in public has also improved because of the course. My favourite part of the subject is the creative writing section. You receive a topic brief but then have free reign to use own creativity and then analyse your own work by writing a commentary.
The Blue Coat Sixth Form is proud to be part of the Cranmer Education Trust
Cranmer Education Trust is a company limited by guarantee and an exempt charity registered in England. Company registration number: 07687709. Registered Office: Cranmer Education Trust, c/o The Blue Coat School, Egerton Street, Oldham OL1 3SQ. The website address is www.cranmereducationtrust.com and the phone number 0161 785 5082.