Social Sciences incorporating ICS
English National 5
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 5
Study mode Evening
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
National 5 English will build your 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 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 serve as pathways to further study, including entry to university. 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 attend 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.
- 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 detailed literary texts
- The production of detailed writing
- Knowledge and understanding of complex language
How the course is assessed
- For the course assessment, you will provide evidence of your reading and writing skills and your ability to understand and use English.
- The course assessment will take the form of a portfolio through which you will demonstrate your writing skills and an examination paper through which you will demonstrate your reading and writing skills.
Number of days per week
- One 3-hour class on Thursday, 4.30 PM to 7.30 PM at Sighthill Campus
- One additional class (one hour per week), usually online, at a time to be negotiated with students once the class has started.
Entry requirements
- Achieved an A at National 4 level in English (or equivalent)
This course is challenging and requires the ability to study independently. Applicants should identify the reason for studying their chosen subject 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 Thursday, 20 August, from 4.30 PM to 7.30 PM at the Sighthill campus.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 7Progression and Articulation Routes
- Achieving a pass at National 5 English may lead to entry into college courses at SCQF Level 6, if other entry requirements are met.
- Achieving an A at National 5 English will allow entry to Higher English.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Evening | 27/08/26 |
