Course Entry Requirements

GCSE grade 5 in English Language.

Introduction

This subject will allow you to broaden your knowledge and understanding by analysing a variety of films. You will develop a wide-range of transferable skills for future study or employment. You will also learn about the film industry and develop your own film-related skills.

What you will study

  • A diverse range of films, including documentary, film from the Silent Era, experimental film and short film
  • Film practices from a historical, national and global context
  • Films’ relationships with social, political, cultural, historical and technological contexts
  • How films generate meanings and responses
  • Film as an ‘art’ form
  • The concept of ‘spectatorship’
  • Relevant theories of film consumption and production

Assessments

  • Examination at the end of year two – 70%
  • Coursework (either filmmaking or screenwriting) – 30%

Course Support

  • Dynamic and engaging classes delivered by experienced staff
  • Additional tutorials to enhance knowledge
  • Regular revision sessions before exams
  • Access to a dedicated computer suite
  • Film equipment for student loan

Enrichment Activities

  • Workshops by industry professionals
  • Film and journalism competitions
  • Trips and visits (e.g. New York)
  • Talks from guest speakers / universities and external workshops

Progression

You can progress to higher education, a degree apprenticeship or employment. Many students opt for a directly related or wider creative arts/humanities HE course.

Career Opportunities

Some examples include Screenwriter, Film Editor, Journalist, Camera Operator, Film Archivist, Freelance Film Maker

Facilities

A dedicated theory classroom and computer room
The latest Adobe suite including Premiere, After-Effects and Photoshop
Printing and scanning facilities
Cameras, tripods, dollies, and other equipment are available for loan

Videos

Click the link below to view the Course Introduction video

A Level Film Studies Course Introduction video

Further Information

Film Studies Course Leaflet

exam board course specification

 

What Our Students Say

The community spirit at Carmel is strong. The teachers are friendly and allow for a more than comfortable study environment, making you feel as though you can go to them with any issue and always gain support.

My experience on the film studies A Level proves this. The engaging and active environment within our lessons allowed my knowledge and love for the subject to expand greater than I ever expected. The film, music, and podcast opportunities that Carmel offers allowed me to delve deeper and improve the understanding necessary for university education. It was the coursework component of the film studies course (where I got to make my own short film) which made me fall in love with the art of filmmaking.

I have loved my years at Carmel, and whilst studying through a pandemic, I have felt extremely safe and comfortable here. I would advise everyone to study here.

Archie Chisnall