Film Studies
Monday, 23 May 2011 14:37
Introduction
The AS/A2 specification in Film Studies is designed to deepen students’ understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film, the major art form of the twentieth century, and one developing new modes of expression and exhibition in the first decades of the twenty-first century. The subject builds on the cineliteracy learners have developed informally since childhood. They will study film deriving from a variety of production contexts and consider how viewing has become affected by modern screening developments. They will also engage with a wide range of different kinds of films, developing skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection, as well as developing their creativity and practical skills, either in audio-visual or written form. A variety of forms of assessment are used, with the intention of producing imaginative, active learners. We have a dedicated Apple Mac Media suite as well as specialist editing equipment and a Music Recording suite. Students will also get the opportunity to work alongside HNC students on their productions.
Film and Media students are offered the opportunity to take part in our annual residential trip to the Edinburgh Film Festival.
Further Details
The aims of AS are to develop students’ appreciation and knowledge of film. Specifically, students study the way film as an audio-visual form of creative expression constructs meaning, provokes varieties of spectator response and raises issues of personal, social, cultural, political and ethical significance. The aims of A Level are to provide students with more sophisticated analytical and critical approaches for understanding how films construct meaning and provoke diverse responses. Studying a wider range of films also develops an appreciation of aspects of the history of film and its cultural diversity. Developing research skills and production skills, through more advanced film projects, allows students to synthesise learning gained throughout the course. Students can
also take AS Level Communications and Culture and undertake an Extended Project to enhance their studies
Progression Options
Students who are successful at AS level may wish to complete an additional year to achieve the A level qualification, from which higher study perhaps at degree level in this or a related area is a possibility. As part of a wider programme the course provides an excellent basis for progression to any career or university course. Film Studies will support a career in a wide range of areas, including Film/TV Production and Journalism. Studying Film Studies alongside English Literature and Art would be a strong combination for careers in any media/arts related field. Students may progress onto our own HNC in Film and Television
Environmental Studies
Monday, 23 May 2011 14:34
Introduction
This course involves the scientific study of how the environment supports us, how we threaten these support systems, and strategies for a more sustainable lifestyle. The subject draws on many study areas including geology, geography, biology and chemistry. The course is suitable for students who are keen to develop an in depth understanding of a range of current issues and find out more about the science behind them. Many practical fieldwork and data handling skills are integral to the course. In the AS year students study aspects of both the physical and living environment. This forms the basis for a more applied approach in the A2 year, when students consider the sustainable management of human use of the planet’s resources, environmental pollution and food supply.
Further Details
Many of the students on this course also study Geography and other sciences particularly Biology and Chemistry. Environmental Studies students will be invited to participate in the popular bi-annual Earth Science “Experience” Trip along with the Geography students. These usually involve travel abroad – recent locations have been Iceland, Italy and Kenya. Cost for this trip is within the range of £600-£1000.
Progression Options
Students who are successful at AS level may wish to complete an additional year to achieve the A level qualification from which higher study perhaps at degree level in this or a related area is a possibility. Employment possibilities include work in all aspects of the Environment: Land and Estate management, Forestry and Agriculture,. Working for Government agencies such as The Environment Agency, DEFRA and local government are also possibilities.
Film Studies Student Quotes