Film Studies

In A-Level Film Studies, students will explore a wide array of cinematic styles and movements that span both time and geography. The programme provides a detailed view of the film industry’s evolution and diversity.

Key areas of focus include:

• Classical and New Hollywood Cinema: Understanding the development and transformation of Hollywood’s film industry.
• Contemporary American Mainstream and Independent Film: Analysing modern films from the mainstream and indie sectors.
• Contemporary British Film: Examining the current state of British cinema.
• Global Cinema: Exploring films from around the world to appreciate diverse storytelling techniques.
• Documentary: Studying the art of documentary filmmaking.
• Silent Film: Exploring the origins of film without sound.

Experimental Film: Investigating non-traditional and avant-garde filmmaking.

After finishing the Film Studies A-Level, many of our students advance to university courses in Film and Media Production, Journalism, and Film Studies. These programmes are well-regarded by universities and cater to a plethora of academic interests.

The skills developed during the course, such as research, in-depth analysis, and independent study, are highly valued both in higher education and the workplace.

The exam board for the A-Level Film Studies programme is Eduqas. They are known as one of the biggest exam boards in the UK, responsible for setting the syllabus, creating exam materials, and marking assessments.

To enrol in the Film Studies A-Level course at Cardinal Newman, students need a minimum of five GCSEs graded 5 or above. This includes at least a grade 6 in English Language or English Literature.

At Cardinal, we also offer a Mixed Programme. This enables students to combine A-Level studies with BTEC qualifications. Ultimately, this option provides flexibility for students and ensures everyone has a pathway that suits their educational needs.