Media Studies
The Media Studies A Level is an exciting journey into the world of media, offering students the chance to analyse and explore a wide range of media products, forms, and concepts. From websites to music videos, the buzz of radio shows to the digital world of gaming, this course covers it all! Students explore key areas like media language, representation, audiences, and industries, developing a keen understanding of how media shapes and reflects our world.
Throughout the course, students build a powerful toolkit of skills—critical analysis, research, practical production, and communication—that are essential for thriving in today’s media landscape. They’ll get hands-on with media theory, dig into real-world industry contexts, and explore the fascinating ways in which media producers connect with their audiences. This isn’t just about theory; it’s about making media, too. With a balance of academic insight and creative application, students are prepared for careers in fields like media, journalism and advertising.
Students take on a cross-media production coursework unit (making up 30% of the final grade) where they get to unleash their creativity by planning and producing their own media projects, all while applying their theoretical knowledge to the real world. It’s an unforgettable experience that equips students with the skills and insights to thrive in the fast-paced media industry!
Media is such an important and influential part of our society and therefore it is important to understand how it works. I am pleased that I tried something new. I liked the specific movies and music videos we studied, such as ‘Formation’ and ‘Riptide’ to get a deeper understanding of its meaning and intention. I also got to learn more about feminism, gender representation and stereotypes.
Alice Sommer, German exchange student
Course Essentials
Courses Available
A Level
How The Course is Assessed
70% exam and 30% coursework
Other Information
There are practical workshops throughout the year on camera use, editing and digital design. All software used on this course is made available for you to work on at home. There are guest speakers leading sessions on media careers and trips to The Depot Cinema in Lewes for Study Days based on the set texts and industry context included in the exam.
Enquiries To
David Allan: daa@varndean.ac.uk
Enrichments and Trips
Depot Black Panther Study Day
Our A Level Media Studies students will enjoy a study day at Depot that will combine a screening of the film with a lecture that is targeted for students of the Eduqas course. The lecture will focus on the film’s economic, social, historical and political contexts thereby deepening the appreciation and understanding of those attending.
Make Media
This enrichment offers a time and place for students to get extra support with the creation of dynamic media products e.g. YouTube videos, music videos, film trailers, print products. Students have access to industry standard software, high spec IT equipment and well equipped studio space. Support comes from the media teaching team.
Film Careers
Take your passion for film to the next level with our Film Careers Enrichment programme. Each week, you’ll have the chance to join exclusive Q&A sessions with industry professionals – from directors and producers to editors and cinematographers. This enrichment is the place to get insider advice, hear real-world stories, and ask your burning questions about breaking into the film industry. It’s the perfect way to explore career paths, build connections, and get inspired for your future!
Staff Profiles
David Allan
David Allan has taught Media Studies for over twenty years in Cornwall, Surrey and now Brighton and is a hugely experienced and dedicated practitioner with a passion for all areas of the subject.
Zoe Evans
Zoe Evans teaches UK Cinema and Contemporary American Cinema. She has been teaching for 25 years with the last 20 focusing on Media and Film. She has industry connections with Brighton University and the Cine City Film Festival and has Film Production experience on an award winning short film, ‘Mr Lamb’, screened at festivals in the UK and around the world.
Em Morgan
Em Morgan is the Film and Media Section’s full time Technician/Instructor. They bring over seven years of dynamic experience in the media and film industry, blending their expertise as a freelance cinematographer, production professional, and skilled technician. Their journey began in 2017 with event videography and corporate projects, expanding to encompass an array of roles on sets for documentaries, short films, music videos, and even a recent stint on a Netflix production. In 2022, Em co-founded ‘Pride Productions’, a company dedicated to empowering young talent by introducing them to large-scale event videography, serving as a launchpad for aspiring freelancers eager to break into the industry.
Student Work
Poppy Dodd - Media Studies
Creative Arts Showcase 2024
Varndean College’s annual Creative Arts Showcase is a dynamic and vibrant celebration of the outstanding creativity and diverse talents of the year’s graduating students. It features live music, dance and drama performances, interactive gaming and film screenings, alongside exhibitions of 3D design, textiles, graphic design, art and photography.