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There’s something a bit daunting about GCSE English, isn’t there? Even as a parent. Over the past 25 years, I’ve spoken to so many mums and dads who say, “I did English at school, but I can’t remember any of it now!” Or, “I’m worried I’ll confuse my child if I try to help.” Maybe that’s you. Or maybe you’re the parent searching Google at 11pm for information about PETER paragraphs? (If so, you’re in good company.)

Supporting GCSE English at home is a bit of a balancing act. Sometimes it feels like you’re doing too much, sometimes not enough. Maybe you’re a parent who’s quietly worried about “interfering” or a student who’d rather do anything than write another practice essay. I’ve helped students with their English for over 25 years and, honestly, there’s no single right way… but I do have some suggestions that might help.

Paper 2, Question 5 is the persuasive / transactional writing task and is worth a hefty 40 marks... so getting this right can make a huge difference to your final grade. This is where you’ll show off your ability to communicate with purpose: to argue, persuade, inform or advise while using language and structure effectively.

Paper 2 might seem like the trickier sibling of Paper 1, but once you know what the exam is really looking for, it feels far less daunting. With the updated specification from summer 2026, a few details have shifted but the core skills you need, such as careful reading, comparing ideas and clear, written explanations, haven’t changed. This guide breaks down Questions 1 - 4, shows how much time to spend on each and gives you practical tips you can actually use.  

Paper 1, Question 5 is where students can show off their writing skills, including creativity, control of language and technical accuracy. It’s worth 40 marks, almost half of the paper, so getting comfortable with this question can make a huge difference to overall grades. From summer 2026, students will still have a choice between two tasks: one narrative (story opening) and one descriptive (based on an image). Both tasks are designed to test the same skills as before.

Tackling AQA GCSE English Language Paper 1 might feel confusing at first, especially with the new spec changes coming into effect from summer 2026, but, don't worry, once you know what the paper involves, it’s surprisingly straightforward. This guide explains Questions 1 - 4, gives timing and mark breakdowns and shares top tips that actually work.

There are fifteen poems in the AQA Power and Conflict cluster so, course, the idea of revising all of them is going to feel overwhelming. However, once you understand what each poem is trying to say (and how they're all connected by similar themes ) it becomes much easier to remember them. This guide will help you get there.

With multiple set texts, language techniques, and exam strategies to master, GCSE English revision can feel overwhelming.

Figurative language is a powerful tool that goes beyond the literal meaning of words and adds richness and depth to language.

This list of top textbooks for AQA GCSE English Language revision have all been used by myself and my students and are highly recommended.

Improved academic results and self-confidence are just some of the benefits of private English tuition. Here's how it can help your child.

Many people believe that you can't revise for GCSE English but, in this article, you'll find tips & strategies to help you do exactly that.

For over two decades, I’ve helped students of all abilities unlock their confidence and achieve real results in English. Whether your child is tackling their first Shakespeare text, preparing for GCSEs or building essential literacy skills, my approach is always the same: practical, positive and completely tailored to their needs. As the founder of English Home Studies, I draw on years of classroom experience and specialist training to make English accessible and engaging f

Exam season is a challenging time for students and their families and it's natural that teenagers preparing for their exams will feel anxious and overwhelmed. Understandably, as a parent, you'll be very worried about the effects of the stress and anxiety on their mental health and will want to do anything you can to support them. In this article, I'll explain how to help your child beat exam stress and ensure they navigate this difficult time with confidence.

As a parent, it's natural that you want your child to excel in every aspect of their life and, if your child is struggling in their English classes, you want to help them. Whether it's problems with grammar and writing skills, reading comprehension or literature, hiring an English tutor can help your child feel more confident. How To Choose The Right English Tutor For Your Child With so many options available, how do you choose the right tutor for your child?

In recent years, the GCSE exams have undergone many changes and many parents are, understandably, unsure about what they involve. The GCSE English exams no longer include Foundation or Higher Tier papers, there's no coursework or controlled assessments and you can't take the set texts into the exams. For GCSE English Literature, you’re expected to know the plot, characters, themes and context of a Shakespearean play, a 19th Century novel and a modern prose or drama text.