The GCSE Film Studies course includes the study of a variety of film forms from around the world and offers students the opportunity to develop their own practical filmmaking skills as they produce a short film of their own.

Throughout the Film Studies GCSE course, students will be challenged to think both creatively and critically whilst also demonstrating excellent writing skills, an essential element of the curriculum. In a practical sense, students will be working with a range of technologies and will also be expected to showcase excellent communication and problem-solving skills. A passion for film is an absolute must!  

The study of American films throughout the 20th Century, British film and global cinema are all key parts of the Film Studies programme of study.

HOW STUDENTS WILL STUDY

Understanding, analysing and reproducing the key elements of film are the key areas of study.

Students are encouraged to develop the following skills over the two-year course:

  • Independent learning skills

  • Watching film analytically and for pleasure

  • Using extended writing to effectively and critically structure ideas

  • Working effectively in small groups to communicate, co-operate and produce content

  • Develop skills of analysis and reasoning

DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES

  • Building confidence through regular teacher feedback

  • A wide range of technologies available in our specially-created film studio

  • Enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom to develop film skills such as trips, entries into film competitions such as the DIGIs and contributing to The Young Wolf Film Festival.

HOW STUDENTS WILL BE ASSESSED

Component 1: Key Developments in US Film

  • Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes, 35% of qualification.

  • This component assesses knowledge and understanding of three US films chosen from a range of options.

Component 2: Global Film: Narrative, Representation and Film Style

  • Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes, 35% of qualification (3 questions).

  • This component assesses knowledge and understanding of three global films produced outside the US chosen from a range of options.

Component 3: Production Non-exam assessment, 30% of qualification.

  • This component assesses students’ abilities to apply knowledge and understanding of film to their own film production.

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Film Studies at GCSE serves as an excellent route into our very successful A-Level course. For employers, a qualification in Film Studies demonstrates that students can think critically and creatively and communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. A Film Studies GCSE is also a vital step towards entering the creative industry, one of the UK’s fastest-growing and most profitable sectors.

More info:

Head of Department:

Mr A Beesla – Lead Teacher of Film Studies abeesla@hswv.co.uk

Mr D Cooper – Lead Teacher of Film Studies dcooper@hswv.co.uk

Student Quote:

‘I enjoyed Film Studies, both the theory and the practical work. It was very enjoyable throughout and I’d recommend it to everyone. I will be taking it next year at GCSE!’

‘A really worthwhile subject with both practical and theoretical sides to it.’

‘I’ve enjoyed the group work and creative side of Film Studies. We’ve also watched some interesting films’.