Teaching GCSE English Language differently: South Devon College’s experience with Eduqas

At South Devon College, the decision to move to our GCSE English Language was about finding a better fit, a qualification that works for their learners and their way of teaching.

Like many colleges across England, they wanted an approach to English that builds confidence rather than barriers.

During our visit to the college, we heard first-hand how our specification is helping to change perceptions of the subject and create a more positive experience for both learners, teachers and lecturers.

Developing skills that matter

For Andrew Niering, English Lecturer at South Devon College, relevance is everything when it comes to engaging learners with GCSE English Language:

Andrew Niering

"I honestly feel that what's being delivered through the Eduqas’ format really transitions to meaningful skills for life.

You're asking young people to put together a formatted piece of persuasive writing, and the story element is fantastic. The encouraging of imagination makes the English language component more real, more relevant, less far away."

That focus on meaningful communication extends into the classroom. By encouraging learners to read for understanding, the specification creates space for deeper discussion and more thoughtful engagement with texts.

When the qualification fits, results follow

Not all GCSE English Language specifications are created equal. While the assessment objectives are consistent across awarding bodies, the way a specification is structured can make a real difference to how well learners are able to demonstrate what they know.

Rebecca Walker (1)

Rebecca Walker, Curriculum Head of Mathematics and English, has seen that first-hand:

“The way Eduqas structure their questions allows learners to demonstrate their understanding in a way that’s more accessible for them.”

At South Devon College, many learners arrive carrying the belief that they are simply "not good at English". For some, moving to a different awarding body offers a genuine sense of starting again and when barriers are reduced, that confidence translates into real progress. Some learners who had previously achieved very low grades have gone on to secure the pass they need to move into further study, an apprenticeship or employment.

These are not just good results. For many learners at South Devon College, achieving GCSE English Language makes a shift in how they see themselves as learners.

More than an exam board

Resources matter, but South Devon College values something harder to quantify too: the ability to pick up the phone and get a straight answer.

From reading and writing materials to spoken language support, Eduqas resources have become a central part of how the college delivers GCSE English Language. But it is the direct access to subject experts that staff highlight as particularly valuable.

Aleshia Sampson

Aleshia Sampson, English Lecturer, puts it simply:

“If you have any problems or concerns you can just pick up the phone or drop an email and Eduqas will respond quickly. I love that we have that relationship with the exam board because that’s quite unusual.”

Could Eduqas make the same difference for your learners?

At South Devon College, the experience speaks for itself. Give learners the right opportunity, and GCSE English Language stops being a barrier and starts being a turning point.

Whether you're looking to improve learner engagement, build confidence or support better outcomes, our team is here to help. Visit eduqas.co.uk to find out more.

Watch the video to hear about Devon College's experience

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