Subject Leader:                Ms H Mashford

Website:                  St Wilfrid's Catholic School - Film Studies

 

Overview
Film has been a huge part of our society for over a hundred years, from the first black & white silent films, to the latest films which employ the use of technology to bring a whole new dimension and experience to modern audiences. Films can be viewed as works of art, as the writer and director share their ideas as a visual representation to viewers across the world. It is a way of sharing and expressing their views, or ideas, on the matter or topics raised within the film.

Our students thoroughly enjoy this subject and our results show excellent progress and a strong level of engagement. This course suits students who like to work in a creative, practical and analytical way. We are well equipped with HD cameras and our own large green screen.

Some of our students go on to study Film at university to become Directors, Producers, Editors or Screenwriters. Others have gone straight into the industry at ground level and worked their way up.

Students taking A2 Film Studies are given many opportunities to enrich their learning, on trips e.g. to the IMAX cinema, talks and workshops, e.g. at the BFI (British Film Institute) and to experience the creative production involved in the industry e.g. the making of the Harry Potter Films at The Warner Brothers Tour in North London. We also have strong links with local professional film makers who offer career advice and work experience.

Key Stage 3 & 4
Not applicable

Key Stage 5
We teach EDUQAS A2 in Film Studies. The units covered offer students the opportunity to develop their creative and analytical skills. The full A-level course has three units in total.

Students receive a solid grounding in film form, aesthetics, macro and micro elements, film history, producers and audiences. They complete the following units:

• Component 1 35%

Written Exam 2 ½ hours (6 films)

Hollywood films, American Independent films, British films.

• Component 2 35%

Written Exam 2 ½ hours (5 films)

Global films, Documentary films and Silent movies, Experimental films

• Component 3 30%

Practical coursework

Film-making or Screenwriting/storyboard

Film Studies is delivered through the Drama department, as so many skills crossover such as acting to screen and directing.