We study films! GCSE Film Studies aims to place students’ experiences and creative ideas at the centre of the course.

Students will explore a wide range of films from the British, US and Global film industry. We analyse the key features of film form, genre, narrative and representation in a similar way to their study of poetry and plays in GCSE English Literature. 

The practical film-making element allows students to develop their IT skills through editing and screen-writing software; as well as the principle camera-work skills needed to shoot on location. This is coursework based and allows students to be really imaginative. They will plan, shoot, edit and evaluate their own footage in order to meet the needs of the production brief.

film studies curriculum map

film studies core knowledge booklet

Film Fact Sheet – Juno

Film Fact Sheet – Tsotsi

Film Fact Sheet – Skyfall

Film Fact Sheet – Slumdog Millionaire

Film Fact Sheet – Dracula

Film Fact Sheet – The Lost Boys

Production brief 2022-2023

GCSE Exam Board: WJEC
You can find the current specifications here

The films studied are:

  • Juno (2007) Reitman
  • Tsotsi (2005) Hood, South Africa, 2005
  • Skyfall (2012) Mendes
  • Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Boyle
  • Dracula (1930) Browning
  • The Lost Boys (1987) Schumacher

As well as clips from a variety of other films

Working Independently

Below are a number of links to resources available to support independent learning:

    Assessment in Film Studies

    During the course, students will be assessed using past paper questions (stepped questions and essay responses) and knowledge tests. Furthermore, students will complete mock exams alongside their other subjects. Some of the course (30%) is assessed via a coursework unit where students create their own short film in response to a production brief; they will also write an evaluative analysis of their work. 

    Personal Development and Cultural Capital in Film Studies

    ‘Into Film club’ takes place weekly on a Thursday (after school) where students can watch and discuss a variety of films as part of a National Lottery funded online platform. Film Studies students are prioritised. For more information, visit: https://www.intofilm.org/

    Who Teaches Film Studies

    Head of Department: Mr C. Clark, BA (Hons), P.G.C.E, M.A.
    Email: cclark followed by @ng6.unity-ed.uk

    Mr Clark studied Literature and Philosophy at Essex University.  After his B.A. Hons was awarded, he studied for his P.G.C.E. at Middlesex University.  He has been teaching since 1999.  He graduated with a Masters Degree from Cambridge University in 2015.  His degree was centred around researching boys’ underachievement.  He has worked in various roles in schools and taught not only English, but Media, Communication and Culture, and Critical Thinking.  He is interested in books, film, the media, philosophy, and Arsenal Football Club.

    Teacher of Film Studies: Mrs K. Smith B.A. (Hons), P.G.C.E.
    Email: ksmith followed by @ng6.unity-ed.uk

    Mrs Smith studied Theatre and Performance at the University of Hull and completed her PGCE at the UEA. She has previously worked as  a stage manager, managing theatre productions in Norfolk and London.

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