CHRISTOPHER WHITEHEAD
LANGUAGE COLLEGE AND SIXTH FORM
WELCOME TO CWLC SIXTH FORM!
ADJANE FORTES | SIXTH FORM STUDENT
I chose Film Studies because I wanted to study a subject which was different from the others. As it wasn’t available at GCSE level at my previous school, I thought it would be an interesting new subject to study. What I liked about studying Film is that we learn about both film theory and the practical side of it. I found this really engaging and informative as it includes the history of film, famous directors and camera techniques. A lot of things can relate to film as they are made to reflect society. I also like the film cinema trips we often go on. This A-level developed my essay writing, researching, and analysis skills but also within class decisions, my thinking, reasoning, and listening skills have improved too. Working in a group raised my confidence because we all have equal contributions in the class. You will get to learn about filmmaking and camera techniques to then get a chance to demonstrate in the NEA, where you can create and direct your own short film, which is challenging but very enjoyable.
WHY CHOOSE A-LEVEL FILM STUDIES?
Film is a powerful and culturally significant medium – it is an art form in itself. As an A-level Film Studies student, you will have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of films and broaden your knowledge and understanding of the range of responses films can generate within the audience and society itself. As part of the A-level course, you will study mainstream American films from the past and the present as well as a range of recent and contemporary British films; American independent films and also global films. For the non-examined assessment (NEA) part of the course, you will demonstrate your knowledge of film through a screenplay or a short film.
WHY STUDY A-LEVEL FILM STUDIES AT CWLC?
We have our own bookable mini-cinema and a larger dedicated film studies classroom. Each student receives a laptop with graphics card to work on during Year 13 to edit their short films which are submitted for coursework. We have regular visits to local independent and big-name cinemas, as well as an annual trips to Warner Brothers Studios for workshops and tours. Our sixth formers enjoy supporting lower years’ film clubs and have contributed to the film studies schemes of work that are taught in years 8 and 9. We host regular film nights in the sixth form social area where we celebrate the value of communal viewing and the shared experience of cinema as entertainment and art. Our Film teachers are MAD about film and we hope this enthusiasm comes across in our interactive and creative lessons. One of our teachers works as a Film Studies A-level examiner and delivers training to other Film teachers from all over the country.
WHAT COULD YOU DO NEXT?
Film Studies A-level is highly respected by all universities as admissions tutors are aware of the high standards and commitment the course content demands and also the extensive range of skills which students are required to develop and hone.
Our past students have gone onto study at Oxford University; on renowned media and film courses in a range of other universities and in design and animation.
The British Film Industry needs people like you! Take this course for careers in screenwriting, editing, production, journalism, drama and even directing!