Course content & format

A Level Film Studies is about far more than simply watching films. It is the study of film as an art form, a cultural product and a powerful means of exploring ideas, values and beliefs. You will analyse how films create meaning through cinematography, editing, sound, mise-en-scène, performance and narrative, while also considering the social, political and historical contexts in which films are made and viewed.

This is a two-year A Level course, normally studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. The course combines critical study with creative practice, allowing you to develop both analytical and practical skills.

You will study a wide range of films, including mainstream American cinema, British film, global film, documentary, silent cinema and experimental film. This variety helps you develop a broad understanding of film history and the different ways filmmakers communicate ideas to audiences. Eduqas describes the course as one that introduces learners to a wide range of films, including mainstream American films from the past and present, British films, American independent film, global film, silent film and significant film movements.

At this college, the course includes:

· Varieties of Film and Filmmaking

· Global Filmmaking Perspectives

· Production

Alongside your study of set films, you will complete a creative production task. This gives you the opportunity to apply your understanding of film form and filmmaking techniques in practice by either creating a short film or writing a screenplay, supported by an evaluative analysis of your work.

Your unique experience

Film Studies is an exciting and challenging subject that encourages you to think critically, creatively and independently. You will explore how film reflects and shapes ideas about identity, society, culture, politics and history and you will consider important issues such as representation, ideology and perspective.

The course covers an impressive range of cinema, from silent film to contemporary filmmaking, helping you understand how film has developed over time and how different styles and movements have influenced the medium. You will learn to look beyond the surface of a film and analyse how meaning is constructed, while also developing your own creative voice through production work.

Students may have the opportunity to take part in trips and enrichment activities linked to the subject, including visits such as Berlin, New York and London, alongside wider opportunities to engage with cinema culture and the film industry.

Entry Qualifications

Entry requirements for A Level courses

· Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics.

· A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.

· A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment.

· An interview may be required as part of the application process.

Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.

How is this course assessed?

This course is assessed through two written examinations and one non-exam assessment:

· Component 1: Varieties of Film and Filmmaking – written examination, 2 hours 30 minutes, 35%

· Component 2: Global Filmmaking Perspectives – written examination, 2 hours 30 minutes, 35%

· Component 3: Production – non-exam assessment, 30%

In the production component, learners produce:

· either a music video (3–4 minutes) or a screenplay for a music video (1600–1800 words), supported by a digitally photographed storyboard

· plus an evaluative analysis (1600–1800 words).

What can I do next?

A Level Film Studies is a well-regarded subject that develops strong transferable skills in analysis, interpretation, communication, research and creativity. It can support progression to higher education, employment and apprenticeships, especially in arts, media and humanities-related areas.

Possible progression routes include:

· Higher Education

· Apprenticeships or higher-level apprenticeships

· Employment

This qualification can support progression into areas such as:

· Film-making

· Directing

· Producing

· Editing

· Screenwriting

· Film Criticism

· Journalism

· Teaching and Education

· Media and Creative Industries