Media/Film/Tv Studies

Course summary

Students who take A Level Media Studies find that they are challenged in different ways to other subjects. We study areas of representation including gender, sexuality, age, and ethnicity in a range of cultures and how audiences are manipulated by the makers of media products (an important skill in the age of social media!). We also study the effect of colonialism on African American, British, and African cultures, and consider the historical impact of patriarchy on advertising, film, and TV using several engaging set products such as American hip-hop music videos and films. Teachers on the A Level Media Studies course are also examiners with Eduqas, so quality delivery of content and support for our students is assured. The A Level in Media Studies works well in conjunction with other subjects such as Sociology, Business, Politics, and History as there is a similar skill- set and range of topic matter, as well as Film Studies, Art, and Graphic Design. The practical component of the course consists of a main product and a linked supporting product that must be created individually. In previous years students have had to make parts of an original magazine, advertising for a film or a music video, with an accompanying website and a short video. There is always a target audience for these briefs which brings the coursework in line with client briefs offered on the BTEC and offers real-life experience for students wanting to pursue advertising or business-based media routes after college. Due to the excellent technician support and facilities here, our students create some of the strongest practical work in the North West. Media Studies offers a variety of pathways such as apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships, and degrees. For example, some students have progressed to Salford University for its proximity to Media City. There is an increasing number of students who choose to go straight into employment at advertising and design agencies such as McCann. Students also choose practical filmmaking courses from all over the country, journalism, advertising, and marketing degrees.