At Forge Valley School & Sixth Form, A Level Media Studies provides students with the knowledge and critical understanding to explore the role of media in shaping contemporary society. Through the study of a wide range of media forms, including television, film, advertising, music videos, newspapers, magazines, radio, video games and online media, students develop a deeper understanding of how media products are created, distributed and consumed, while examining their social, cultural, political and economic significance.

The course is built around the key concepts of media language, representation, audiences and media industries. Students learn to analyse how media texts create meaning, how different groups and ideas are represented, how audiences engage with media products and how media organisations operate in an increasingly global and digital environment. They also engage with a range of influential media theories, developing the ability to apply academic concepts to both familiar and unseen media texts.

Alongside analytical study, students undertake a substantial practical production project, creating their own media product in response to an industry-style brief. This enables them to apply theoretical knowledge creatively while developing skills in research, planning, design, production and evaluation. Through both critical analysis and practical work, students develop highly transferable skills including communication, creativity, research, problem-solving and independent thinking. These skills provide an excellent foundation for higher education and careers in media, journalism, marketing, advertising, public relations, digital content creation and the wider creative industries

143 KB
352 KB

 

FAQ

Because the content of A Level Media Studies is firmly embedded within cultural, socio-political and economic life, it sits well alongside and supports work in subjects like English literature, History, Sociology and Politics. Analytical skills from subjects such as English Language is also beneficial. 

Yes, A Level Media Studies students can go onto study Media, TV or Film at University as a practical degree, a theoretical degree or a combination of the two. This can lead to a very broad range of professions in media, film and  journalism.  

Media studies can lead to a very broad range of professions in media, film and  journalism.  

These include:  

  • Presenter 

  • Advertising media buyer 

  • Copywriter 

  • Media researcher 

  • Broadcast journalist 

  • Writer 

  • Social media manager 

  • Producer 

  • PR consultant 

  • Web content manger 

  • Photographer 

  • Political adviser 

  • Editorial assistant 

And so much more. 

 

Media Studies can also develop a wide range of transferable skills including analysis, visual communication, problem-solving, as well as communication, presentation and organisational skills.