Creative Media Production (A Level)

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - To be confirmed

Entry Requirements: - 5 GCSEs Grade 9-4 - Some requirements vary slightly dependent on course.

How to Apply: - Please apply via Applica here

Board: AQA

Through studying Media Studies students will view, evaluate and analyse a variety of media products, and develop practical skills spanning a range of media forms. Students will find contemporary, diverse topics and varied and engaging content, helping to develop research, problem-solving skills as well as creativity. They’ll also refine their debating skills through the discussion of contemporary issues from a range of perspectives.

A-level Media Studies engages students in the in depth study of media products in relation to the four areas of the theoretical framework:

media language

media representation

media industries

media audiences.

Students are required to study media products from all of the following media forms:

television

film

radio

newspapers

magazines

advertising and marketing

online, social and participatory media

video games

music video

Unit 1:

Section A will focus on Media Language and Media Representations. Questions in this section will test the following forms:

advertising and marketing

music video

Section B will focus on Media Industries and Media Audiences. Questions in this section can test any two of the following forms:

radio

Newspapers

film (industries only)

How it’s assessed

written exam: 2 hours

84 marks / 35% of A-level

Questions

A range of questions relating to an unseen source and Close Study Products.

Two essay questions (20 marks), one of which is an extended response question.

Unit 2:

Questions will focus on the in-depth media forms of television, magazines and online games.

How it’s assessed

written exam: 2 hours

84 marks / 35% of A-level

Questions:

One medium length unseen analysis question

Three essay questions (25 marks), one of which is an extended response question and one of which is a synoptic question.

Non-exam assessment: Creating a cross-media production

Application of knowledge and understanding of theoretical framework

Ability to create media products

How it’s assessed

A choice of one of 6 annually changing briefs, set by AQA

60 marks / 30% of A-level

Assessed by teachers / Moderated by AQA

Tasks

Students produce a statement of intent and a cross-media production made for an intended audience

Units of Study

UNIT 1: Media Representations

The assessment is by an on-screen examination.

UNIT 4: Pre-production Portfolio

For the assessment, students create a portfolio and manage the pre-production for their own creative media production.

UNIT 8: Responding to a Commission

Assessment is by a controlled assessment.

UNIT 10: Film Production (Fiction)

Assessment by coursework.

Five grades 9-4 at GCSE including grade 6 in English.

An interest in a variety of media texts

An A Level in Media Studies could lead to a degree level course in Media Studies or Film Studies or prepare students for a range of career opportunities, including writing, publishing, teaching, journalism or media.