Social Sciences incorporating ICS
English Higher
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Evening
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Higher English will build on skills learned in National 5 English, especially the ability to understand, discuss and analyse literature such as poetry, drama, short stories and novels.
Through this, you will develop the ability to read, understand and appreciate the impact of detailed and complex language in academic, journalistic and creative contexts.
Speaking and listening skills will be practised through individual presentations and group discussions. Skills in research and planning will be developed through independent study under your lecturer's guidance.
National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher qualifications, accredited by the SQA, are typically studied at high school and college. These qualifications act as pathways to further study, including university entry. Edinburgh College offers a selection of subjects at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels as part-time courses. You may choose to study up to two subjects.
For evening classes, you will come to college once a week for a 3-hour class. There will also be an online class for one hour per week, which you are expected to attend.
Please note this course is not an ESOL qualification, and requires a high level of fluency in spoken and written English.
Course Fees: £416 per subject. Fees will be confirmed when an application has been processed.
We are running a free taster session on 8 June, 6 PM to 9 PM, at the Sighthill campus. If you are interested in learning more about the course, meeting the lecturers, or deciding whether this is the right course or level for you, please sign up using the form below.
National 5 and Higher English Taster Session – Fill in form
What you will learn
- Communication skills in reading, writing, talking and listening
- Understanding, critical analysis and evaluation of complex literary texts
- The production of complex and detailed writing
- Knowledge and understanding of complex language
How the course is assessed
- The course assessment will take the form of a portfolio through which you will demonstrate your writing skills, and an examination that will assess your ability to write critically on set texts and to demonstrate reading skills for understanding, analysis, and evaluation of texts.
- Higher English is a demanding course. Students must attend all classes and study independently for at least 3 hours a week. Please consider whether you can make this commitment before applying for the course.
Number of days per week
- You will attend one taught class per week, either on a Monday (6 PM to 9 PM) or a Thursday (4.30 PM to 7.30 PM).
- Please indicate your preferred day on your application.
- Although classes normally take place on campus, some may be online (this will be discussed with your lecturer).
- Additionally, you will also be expected to attend an additional class (one hour per week), usually online, at a time to be negotiated with students once the class has started.
Entry requirements
- You should have recently gained an A in English at National 5 (or equivalent)
- If you do not meet this entry requirement, you may sit a skills test to demonstrate that you can work at this level.
- This course is challenging and requires the ability to study independently.
- Applicants should clearly identify their reason for studying Higher English in their course application.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to attend a brief, informal interview, either in person or online.
- You may be invited to sit a skills test to assess your ability to meet the course's demands.
- You are expected to attend an induction on Monday, 17 August, from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Sighthill campus.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 7Progression and Articulation Routes
- Appropriate Higher qualifications, including English, may support your application to study HNC or degree courses in your preferred subject area.
- If you require Higher English to apply for a post-graduate course, you should check the grade required.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Evening | 24/08/26 |
