Media Studies

At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 9-5 including English Language and Maths.

Consider the big issues today – the environment, new technologies, the economy and employment… not interested? What about sport, celebrity, music, and events? What would you know about any of these without the various media bombarding you with messages all day every day at the bus stop, on TV, the internet, on your phone and iPad? Whether we like it or not, the media tell most of us what to think, most of the time. Media Studies is the subject that helps you make sense of and question those messages – how to be an opinion leader, not a mere follower and how to create and distribute your own messages to the world around you.

AS units

• Foundation portfolio in media
• Key media concepts (TV Drama)

A2 units

• Advanced portfolio in media
• Critical perspectives in media

The majority of students who have previously completed this course have progressed to university degree-level programmes such as Screenwriting, Creative Writing, Film Studies, English Literature, English and American Studies and a number of film, television and animation courses at places as diverse as Aberystwyth, Bristol, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Ravensbourne (London) and more locally at Bournemouth and Southampton. Many are now employed in broadcast television and some in the film production and exhibition sectors of the rapidly growing creative industries. Contrary to popular hearsay, the A-levels in Film Studies and Media Studies are fully recognised qualifications for entry into 95% of universities and respected by employers as evidence of focussed academic study and commitment from students over the two-year period.

I have taught English Language, Literature, Creative Writing and Film Studies A Levels at Weymouth College for the last 8 years. I have also been an Associate examiner for AQA and Assistant Examiner for the AEB. I continue to update my subject knowledge, training and CPD with the different exam Boards – AQA, Pearson and EDUQAS (WJEC) thus I can guide students to the best exam skills and strategies for improving their performance in Coursework and Exams. Having specialised in Sixth Form teaching since I began my career in 1995, after having gained a Master of Arts degree in Literature,  I have honed my expertise in A Level teaching and Learning. Our English related courses are stimulating; covering relevant and broad topics such as Socio- and Psycho- linguistics, and we select contemporary literary and film choices making the content relevant for our students.

If you are aged 16-18 as of 31 August on the year of enrolment – no course fee. If you are over 19 as of 31 August and enrolling on a full-time programme of study a tuition fee will be applicable in most cases. Bursary funds – There are financial support arrangements for 16-18 year olds and hardship funds available for the over 19s. Please contact reception for details of costs and concessions on 01305 761100 or email igs@weymouth.ac.uk