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Curriculum

Media Studies

Welcome to the Media Studies Department

Subject Leader: Lauren Gaynor l.gaynor@holyfamily.waltham.sch.uk

The Media Department consists of the Curriculum Leader for Media Studies and a part time member of staff who also teaches ICT.

Media Studies is taught at KS4 and KS5. Learners at KS4 level can choose BTEC Media as an option. Learners at KS5 level can choose Media Studies at A-Level and BTEC Media (Year 12).

Media Studies involves the close analysis of the images, sounds and text that we experience via the media. It is the study of individual media texts (such as films, TV shows, magazines, websites) and

Who made them (“institution”)?
How they were made (“process”)?
Why they were made (“purpose”)?
Who they were made for (“audience”)?
What rules were followed when making them
(“conventions” and “genre”)?

 

Aims of the Media Department

  1. Every student who is taught by the Media Studies Department is given the same learning opportunities as all other students.
  2. Students are to be supported as best as can be with their learning development as Media Students.
  3. Students are to be given a wide range of learning resources through booklets, ICT provision, and group, paired and individual tasks that enable them to achieve to the highest level of their ability and enjoy their learning.
  4. That every Media Studies Students is given opportunity to develop their Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural knowledge of the world and themselves.
  5. To make all Media Students responsible creators of media and film productions.
  6. To provide extra provision outside of lesson time for every student to help develop their work to the best level that is possible.

Extra-curricular Opportunities

We offer students a range of extra-curricular opportunities to develop their media skills outside of school. For example:

 

  • Trips to Art House Cinemas to experience film festivals and celebrate niche cinema.
  • External community filming projects with film producers from Eastenders and Clash of the Titans!
  • Film Club creates an arena for watching a wide variety of films and debates on the themes and issues raised in film.
  • Film and Media Workshops to develop skills in short film and animation as well as script writing with leading professionals in the British film industry.
  • Guest speakers from the music industry.
  • Media Students are often asked to assist projects around the school, such as filming and editing whole school projects.