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Media Studies A level (SA052)
Paston College
Grammar School Road, North Walsham, Norfolk, NR28 9JL

Available start dates
Available start dates
Application Instructions
3 A Level Programme
Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)
Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.
You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.
4 A level programme
If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.
Please note that A Plus is designed for applicants to academic courses at Oxford, Cambridge or other Russel Group universities. Grades in vocational subjects cannot replace GCSE's for entry to this programme.
Vocational programmes
Minimum of five grade 4 at GCSE (or old grade C) or Merit/Distinction in a relevant BTEC First Diploma (or equivalent) plus 1 grade 4 (or old grade 4) at GCSE. You must also study English Language and/or Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.
Level 2 programme
Minimum of three grade 4 at GCSE (or old Grade C).
This programme is designed for those students who just miss our entry requirements for level 3 study. It includes an opportunity to improve your GCSE English Language and Maths grades, alongside a Workskills course to develop the skills required for progression into employment or onto a level 3 programme.
Course Details
Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster film, downloading a favourite track from itunes, or talking to friends via social networks, you are immersed in the world of the media. This two year course looks at the role of the media within society. You will study a range of media forms including advertising and marketing, film, magazines, music video, newspapers, online media, radio, television and video games. You will also develop knowledge and understanding of the nature of the media considering the effect of different national contexts, the global reach of media industries and the targeting of audiences on a national and global scale. You will gain a deeper understanding of the history behind some of the changes that have taken place within media. You will develop knowledge of how these changes have led to the evolution of changed media forms, such as the impact of changing and evolving platforms for film, radio, video games, music videos, television dramas and magazines. You will also have the unique opportunity to create a music video and explore media in a digital age that will introduce you to the exciting and changing world of media both domestically, globally and in the contemporary digital world. You will be taught by expert teachers with previous industry experience and will also have the opportunity to network with industry professionals from the BBC and ITV. You will also be able to showcase your work at the annual Paston Film Night and attend subject related trips. We have previously taken students to film sets and the Harry Potter Studio Tour. This course is suitable for critical thinkers and those who can demonstrate an ability to make informed arguments and engage in critical debates. You will also need to be willing to learn new practical skills and develop your understanding and knowledge of digital media products. You will be assessed through two written examinations based on industries and audiences, media products and media forms. You will also complete one non exam assessment that focuses on cross media production.
Entry requirements
3 A Level Programme
Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)
Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.
You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.
If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.
Please note that A Plus is designed for applicants to academic courses at Oxford, Cambridge or other Russel Group universities. Grades in vocational subjects cannot replace GCSE's for entry to this programme.
Your next steps...
This course provides a suitable foundation for a range of higher education degree courses. Former students are now working for BBC television and radio, Radio Norwich, Disney, North Norfolk Radio, Norwich City Football Club, Heart Radio, Anglia TV, Island Records and Tiger Aspect.
For more courses like this, check our courses page.