Media Studies A Level

***** Please note, applications have now closed for September 2026 Sixth Form Admissions *****

Applications Open - Midday, 9 January 2026

Applications Close - Midday, 6 February 2026

School Entry Requirements: -

As a basic entry requirement to join our Sixth Form, you must have achieved at least 6 GCSE subjects at Grade 6 or above including:

at least a Grade 5 in English

at least a Grade 5 in Mathematics

and the specific entry requirements for each of your subjects.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices ***Now Closed***

Media Studies is a truly contemporary subject which is relevant to all of our lives. The media saturates everything we do in the developed world in the 21st century. Giving you the tools to analyse and critique the media, affords you the chance to see the ways in which the media pervades your life.

We study the AQA Media Studies specification which allows you to:

•View, evaluate and analyse a variety of media products, and develop practical skills spanning a range of media forms

•Find contemporary, diverse topics and varied and engaging content, helping you to develop research and problem-solving skills, as well as developing your creativity

•Refine your debating skills through the discussion of contemporary issues from a range of perspectives

Course Content

Media Studies is a truly contemporary subject which is relevant to all of our lives. The media saturates everything we do in the developed world in the 21st century. Giving you the tools to analyse and critique the media, affords you the chance to see the ways in which the media pervades your life.

Your study will focus on four areas of Media Studies: Language; Representation; Industry; and Audiences across nine Media forms (Television, Film, Radio, Newspapers, Magazines, Advertising, Social Media, Video Games & Music Videos).

Forms will range from the historic and the contemporary allowing you to explore your own interests and tastes, while expanding your learning and understanding within a range of challenging Media products.

Media One (35%)

• Written examination of 2 hours
• 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

Media Two (35%)

• Written examination of 2 hours
• 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

NEA (Non-Examination Material): Creating a cross-media production (30%)

Students produce from a choice of one of six annually changing briefs, set by AQA:

• A statement of intent
• A cross-media production made for an intended audience

Study of Media at GCSE is not a requirement but will obviously support your understanding as this course builds on GCSE skills. You should have GCSE qualifications in English of at least Grade 5 or above and a text based humanities subject of at least Grade 6 or above. The subject has a practical element but 70% of the course is through written examined content.