English continues to be an enormously popular subject with both A-level and undergraduate students. Communication between colleagues who teach in the post-16 and university sectors, however, can be somewhat sporadic and insubstantial.

The University Admissions and Transition Special Interest Group aims to:

• promote dialogue between colleagues teaching English at AL and degree level
• respond to any new developments in Key Stage 5 or university education, or in the admissions process
• encourage online contact and the sharing of ideas and information
• set up opportunities for colleagues to visit and observe English being taught in schools, colleges and universities
• host twice-yearly meetings
• contribute to the English Association’s conference programme
• manage the Why Study English? website

The group is convened by Dr Jenny Stevens. Anyone interested in joining the group is welcome to contact her by email - jennystevens26@btinternet.com

News

The reform of Key Stage 5 English has been a protracted and at times frustrating business. Doubtless the newly accredited specifications will not have satisfied everyone’s expectations, yet there is plenty in them to engage and inspire sixth-form students and teachers alike. The English Association’s University and Transition Group is hosting a conference on New Aspects of A Level English at Senate House, University of London, on Saturday 3 October 2015. The event aims to bring together colleagues from across the secondary and higher education sectors and will cover both English language and English literature topics. With speakers drawn from the A-level and university teaching communities, the day promises to inform, excite and inspire.