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Film Studies
Curriculum Intent:
The intent of the Film Studies curriculum is to develop students into analytical, creative, and culturally aware interpreters of one of the world’s most powerful art forms. Through the study of diverse global, British, and independent films, students explore how meaning is constructed and how cinema reflects and challenges social, historical, and political contexts. They engage critically with film form—cinematography, editing, sound, mise-en-scène, and performance—and apply theoretical perspectives at A Level such as auteur theory, spectatorship, and ideology. Practical production work is integral, enabling students to apply knowledge through filmmaking or screenwriting. Our curriculum fosters excellence through academic and creative rigour, integrity through inclusive and ethical representation, and respect through the exploration of multiple perspectives, ensuring students become reflective and thoughtful contributors to the culture around them.
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Autumn 1 |
Autumn 2 |
Spring 1 |
Spring 2 |
Summer 1 |
Summer 2 |
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Y9 |
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Y10 |
Script to Screen: Genre and Screenwriting |
Screenwriting |
Shooting Scripts |
Evaluation Film History
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Y11 |
District 9 |
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Y12 |
Pan’s Labyrinth Shaun of the Dead
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Parasite Fishtank |
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Ideology and Spectatorship in Captain Fantastic and La La Land Short film analysis (Production) |
Short film planning (Production). |
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Y13 |
Short film creation (Production) Some Like It Hot |
Short film creation (Production) |
Revision: Buster Keaton & Amy
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Revision: Pan’s Labyrinth & Parasite Shaun of the Dead & Fish Tank |
Revision: La La Land & Captain Fantastic Some Like it Hot & Do The Right Thing. |
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GCSE exam board & specification: Eduqas GCSE Film Studies (Specification)
Textbook(s): WJEC Eduqas GCSE Film Studies – Student Book by Jackie Newman, Dave Fairclough, Kelly Fincham, Julie Patrick
A level exam board & specification: Eduqas A-level Film Studies (Specification)
Textbook(s): WJEC Eduqas Film Studies for A Level & AS – Student Book by Ellen Cheshire, Mark Ramey, Jenny Stewart, Lisa Wardle.
A Level Knowledge Organisers:
How to help your child:
1. Support with revising set films
GCSE: Encourage your child to revisit key scenes from the films they’ve studied (like Rebel Without a Cause or Attack the Block) and talk through how they are made – for example, the use of lighting, music, or camera shots to create mood or excitement. This helps them prepare for exam questions that ask how films are put together.
A-Level: At this level, students are expected to write in more depth. You could ask them to explain how scenes from films like Parasite or Do the Right Thing explore bigger ideas (e.g. fear, justice, power) through how the film looks and sounds.
2. Broaden their film knowledge
GCSE: Watching film documentaries or “making-of” features (e.g. how District 9 was made) can help students better understand how films are created and the roles involved – both useful for coursework and exams.
A-Level: Recommend they watch interviews with directors or short online videos about film movements or genres. This builds the background knowledge they need to write thoughtful, informed essays.
3. Encourage creative coursework
GCSE: Your child may need to plan a short script or film scene. Ask them about their ideas and help them stay on track with their planning and deadlines.
A-Level: Students produce either a short film or a screenplay. Talking through their creative choices – such as the characters, setting or message – helps them reflect more deeply when writing their evaluation, which is a key part of their coursework.
What opportunities for enrichment are there in Film?
We offer regular trips to the BFI and Warner Bros studios, or other production studios where pupils can learn about the world of film.
What careers can success in Film Studies lead to?
Success in Film Studies can lead to a wide range of careers both within the creative industries and beyond. Many students go on to work in film, television, and media as directors, screenwriters, editors, cinematographers, producers, or sound designers. The subject also opens up opportunities in journalism, film criticism, social media, marketing, and public relations, where strong analytical and communication skills are essential. For those interested in education or research, Film Studies provides a strong foundation for teaching, lecturing, or working in film archives and museums. Beyond the media sector, the skills gained—such as critical thinking, essay writing, visual literacy, and project management—are transferable to fields like law, advertising, publishing, and business. Whether students pursue creative production or theoretical analysis, Film Studies develops a unique combination of creativity, cultural awareness, and academic rigour that is highly valued by employers and universities alike.