"Media does not simply reflect reality — it constructs it."

A Level Media Studies builds on the foundations developed at GCSE, enabling students to explore in depth how media shapes society, influences audiences and constructs meaning across a range of forms.

Students become confident analysts and critical thinkers, able to evaluate media products through key theoretical frameworks. At the same time, they develop practical and creative skills through production work, becoming both consumers and creators of media.

The course develops reflective, independent and discerning learners, aligned with the Jesuit Pupil Profile, preparing students for further study and life beyond school.

Our provision includes:

• a concept-led curriculum based on the Eduqas Media Studies specification
• study of key areas:
  • Media Language
  • Representation
  • Media Industries
  • Audience
• regular essay practice, supported by modelling and feedback (WalkThrus)
• structured development of critical and analytical writing
• coursework production tasks enabling practical application of theory
• targeted revision and intervention systems to support independent study
• opportunities to develop resilience, independence and accountability

What students study

Students analyse a wide range of media products, including:

• television
• music videos
• film marketing
• online and social media
• advertising

They:

• apply theoretical frameworks to real media texts
• develop sophisticated written arguments
• produce practical coursework demonstrating understanding of media production

The course builds progression from:

• analysis
• evaluation
• independent critical judgement

Enrichment

Students benefit from:

• industry-focused lectures and seminars
• trips and visits where possible
• one-to-one support for coursework and exam preparation

Supporting all learners

Students are supported through:

• structured modelling of essays and exam responses
• explicit teaching of effective revision strategies
• targeted intervention and personalised feedback

Destinations

Students studying A Level Media Studies progress to a diverse range of destinations, reflecting both the transferable skills developed through the course and the varied interests of the cohort.

Recent students have progressed to universities including:

• University of Reading
• University of Portsmouth
• University of Bristol
• Falmouth University

They have studied a wide range of subjects such as:

• Film and Media
• Journalism
• Business and Marketing
• Law and Finance

Alongside higher education, students also progress into:

• apprenticeships (including AWE)
• employment and vocational pathways

Importantly, a number of students move into media and creative pathways, including Film Making and Journalism, demonstrating the subject’s relevance to industry.

Why study Media?

Media Studies enables students to:

• understand how media shapes the world
• think critically about information and representation
• communicate ideas clearly and effectively
• develop skills valued by universities and employers

It is a subject that prepares students not only for exams, but for life in a complex, media-driven society.

Grade 6 is required in English Language or Literature.

 

This specification provides a suitable foundation for the study of Media Studies or a related area on a range of higher education degree courses, for the next level of vocational qualifications, or for employment. In addition, the course provides a coherent, engaging and culturally valuable course of study for learners who do not progress to further study in this subject