Petition · past parliament
Make closed book GCSE English Literature OPTIONAL for 16 year olds in the UK
Closed
282 signatures
What the petition asks
Year 11 students face the huge task of taking a compulsory exam in GCSE English Literature. This is a closed book exam in which the study and memorisation of quotes is essential .
Surely this is an unnecessary waste of resources when there is already a compulsory examination in English Langauge.
Surely this is an unnecessary waste of resources when there is already a compulsory examination in English Langauge.
The NSPCC reports a surge in the number of young people seeking help through the Childline support service specifically as a result of exam stress.
We are concerned that the new style English Literature exam is inaccessible to students where poor language and literary skills prevail; its compulsory nature breeds unprecedented levels of stress.
Ministers wishing to tackle student mental health issues, should consider the impact of their English Literature Exam policy; make it optional study .
We are concerned that the new style English Literature exam is inaccessible to students where poor language and literary skills prevail; its compulsory nature breeds unprecedented levels of stress.
Ministers wishing to tackle student mental health issues, should consider the impact of their English Literature Exam policy; make it optional study .
Timeline
| 21 Dec 2017 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 21 Jun 2018 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
282
Status
Closed
Opened
21 Dec 2017
Closed
21 Jun 2018
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.