Media Studies

A-level Media Studies is the exploration and critical analysis of various media products;  an enjoyable subject giving students transferable skills for their further studies and for their future careers. It is relevant in our constantly changing world of media. It is an engaging and interesting course that provides students with opportunities to explore a wide variety of media products from different platforms such as television, film, magazine, newspapers and video games. The course is for all, creative and practical students, as we study a diverse range of Media frameworks, covering Media Industries, Media Audiences, Media Language and Media Representation.

Qualification – A Level

Examination Board - AQA

SpecificationView on the AQA Website

Subject Lead: Miss Simpson

Film is an inextricable part of the wider media landscape, which is intimately connected with other media, such as television, video games and online media.

A-level Media Studies engages students in the in depth study of media products in relation to the four areas of the theoretical framework:

  • media language
  • media representation
  • media industries
  • media audiences.

This specification requires students to closely analyse and compare media products in relation to relevant key social, cultural, economic, political and historical contexts.  

Students will sit all their exams and submit all their non-exam assessment at the end of the course.

Unit 1 – Media One (35% of A Level)

  • A range of questions relating to an unseen source and Close Study Products.
  • Two essay questions (20 marks), one of which is an extended response question.

Unit 2 – Media Two (35% of A Level)

  • One medium length unseen analysis question.
  • Three essay questions (25 marks), one of which is an extended response question and one of which is a synoptic question.

Non Exam Assessment (30% of A Level)

Students produce:

  • a statement of intent
  • a cross-media production made for an intended audience.

Academy Entry Requirements: A minimum of five GCSE grades 9 – 4.  

Students must also attain a grade 5 in an English GCSE

"Exploring the social, historical, and political contexts of diverse media products brings me immense joy. A-level Media Studies allows me to delve into culturally relevant and captivating media, spanning from films to radio broadcasts, music videos to magazines like GQ. The excitement lies in applying media theories to advertisements and music videos, enhancing my understanding of language and representation. This course has been instrumental in deepening my knowledge of the media industry, which aligns with my career aspirations post-sixth form."

How to apply

You can find full details on how to apply to our sixth form on the Admissions page

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