Media Studies

This is a rewarding course, which requires you to be critical of the world around you. You will develop your skills of media literacy through a combination of independent and supported study. You will be given opportunities to evaluate a range of texts, considering their impact on individuals, minority groups and society as a whole. As the course offers opportunities to develop your practical skills, students with a degree of creative ability will be particularly suited to the course.

There is open enrolment into the Sixth Form, but there are certain entry requirements: Each student will need to achieve a minimum average points score of 4.8 from the best 8 results; with a Grade 4 or higher in Maths or English Language or Literature. This average points score is based on the QCA points system which is as follows: 9 = 9, 8 = 8, 7= 7, 6 = 6, 5= 5, 4= 4, 3 = 3, 2 = 2 and 1 = 1 A strong ability in English is desirable and, where taken, Media Studies GCSE grade 5 is recommended.

Through studying Media Studies students will view, evaluate and analyse a variety of media products, and develop practical skills spanning a range of media forms. Underpinning these skills are the 4 aspects of Media which make up the Theoretical Framework; Media Language, Audience, Representation and Industries. The course will feature two written exams that cover a range of media texts, concepts and theories (70%). As well as the exams, there is a Non-exam Assessment where students must respond to a brief and create a range of Practical Media Productions (30%). The NEA allows students to flex their creative muscles and research, plan and create their own media pieces. In the past, students have created some outstanding original pieces such as movie trailers, adverts, websites and magazines. We use the latest technology such as Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, white and green screens and HD cameras to produce practical Media pieces that reflect the creativity, passion and ability of our students.

The course will feature two written exams that cover a range of media texts, concepts and theories (70%). As well as the exams, there is a Non-exam Assessment where students must respond to a brief and create a range of Practical Media Productions (30%).

This qualification should appeal to students interested in a wide range of careers related to the media including journalism, design, film, directing and advertising. Because it teaches transferable skills, students will also find that this qualification is useful in the fields of marketing, business, teaching and IT.