Level 3

Film Studies A Level

As well as gaining an appreciation of film as an art form in terms of visual storytelling you will learn about narrative, genre, cinematography, editing and other technical aspects of filmmaking. You will study a…

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Qualification
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Awarding Organisation
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Course type
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Duration
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Centre
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Course level
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Course code
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As well as gaining an appreciation of film as an art form in terms of visual storytelling you will learn about narrative, genre, cinematography, editing and other technical aspects of filmmaking. You will study a wide range of films, from the early days of silent cinema to contemporary Hollywood films like La La Land and Pulp Fiction. Social, cultural and political areas are dealt with for each film providing a range and depth of understanding. The practical element of the course involves putting your learning into practice by making a short film or writing a screenplay and creating a storyboard.

Find out more about our A Level pathways and how to apply

This course is for 16-18 years olds with a passion for a wide range of cinema. It is not necessary to have studied either Film or Media at GCSE. It is an academic subject and suits students who have flourished in essay-based subjects as well as being creative.

Film Studies involves much more than just watching films. You will be developing your understanding of film through a combination of analytical and creative work.

During the course you will:

  • gain an appreciation of film as a form of art
  • enhance your understanding of the world, including different values, beliefs and attitudes
  • put theory to practice by making a short film or writing a screenplay.

Topics include:

  • Hollywood 1930-1990
  • American Independent Film
  • British Film
  • European Film
  • Film Production
  • Global Film
  • Documentary
  • Silent Film
  • Experimental Film
  • Short Film

5 x GCSEs at grade 4 and above including GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 and above.

We will invite you to a course information meeting event where you will receive information, advice and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other this will include attendance. This is to ensure we can support to be able to achieve well on the course. Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criteria. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference / school report.

At course information meeting you will be able to discuss the Pathways for A Levels and look at combinations, We will ensure you are of the specific entry requirements at GCSE grade per A Level subject as some subjects will require higher than grade 5.

The course will deepen your understanding of and passion for a range of films by enhancing your cine-literate skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection. The theoretical and practical skills obtained on this course are transferable into either employment or university courses, especially in humanities and cultural-based subjects.

This course is free to anyone aged 16-18. There is no formal list of additional costs. However, if you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.

How to apply?

Your admissions journey will follow a number of straightforward steps and will likely follow a similar format to the steps outlined on our ‘How to Apply‘ page.

For 16-18 courses, places will be offered for a specific course of study at City of Bristol College, subject to the applicant meeting all course entry criteria.

What support is available to me as a student?

You’ll have our support for every step of your studies. We’re here to help make sure you get the support that you need to succeed.

  • Careers Advice
  • Learning Support
  • Students in Care
  • Fees & Financial Support
  • Mental Health Support
  • Academic and Personal Support
What facilities will I have access to as a student here?

From state-of-the-art engineering, construction and motor vehicle centres to welcoming spaces for A Levels, technical and vocational courses, our facilities are designed to support students in developing the skills, knowledge and experience they need for their future.

Explore our centres, as well as our training restaurants and salons, where students can put their learning into practice in professional environments.

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