The new, linear OCR Film Studies A-level course involves a detailed analysis of the forms and conventions of film. It combines practical production in conjunction with written, theoretical examinations. Any required technical skills will be taught in Year 12, including the use of digital DSLRs, camcorders and Final Cut Pro X. Students are encouraged to watch and analyse all forms of film – including British independent, short films, European experimental films, documentaries and Hollywood blockbusters – to gain a thorough understanding of film conventions and industry practices. Students develop their understanding of the film industry through independent study, and it is recommended that they view films beyond the set film list, as well as keep abreast of industry developments through online features, film magazines, TV and radio podcasts dedicated to the business of film. They will also take part in workshops and screenings at the British Film Institute and our own Phoenix Theatre. Students will develop their practical skills to the point at which they can make independent decisions about research and planning, production and post-production. Year 1 • Studying Film – exploring film history through microelements, such as cinematography, editing and sound. Film choices include 2001: A Space Odyssey and The General. • Contemporary US and UK film industries – looking at film as text, covering elements of narrative, genre and representation in films like Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Ex-Machina. • Practical – short filmmaking – students make either a four to five-minute short film from script to screen or a 10-page screenplay with photographed plans and storyboards. Students watch a selection of eight short films, which should inspire them in terms of camera, mise en • scene, narrative and representation. All practical work is produced individually by each student, though they are encouraged to put together a crew to assist on shooting days. Year 2 • European Cinema – part of the Film History examination, this unit explores film movements like German Expressionism as well as the experimental nature of the film, from Nosferatu to L’Age D’Or. • Documentary Film – filmmaking, theory and critical debates on naturalism and narrative. Film choices include Searching for Sugar Man and Man on Wire. • Ideology across three films – a theme-based unit, which explores films from an ideological perspective. For example, themes of family and home will be compared across Moonrise Kingdom, A Separation and Room.
In general, external applicants are required to achieve at least five GCSE passes at Grade 6 or above (as required by individual subjects) for entry into our A-level courses. Grade 6 in English and at least one other art or humanities subject.
Written examinations account for 70% of the overall qualification, so students must possess very good analytical and literacy skills. There are three assessments in total: • Film history. This is a two-hour exam with a weighting of 35%. • Critical approaches to film. This is a two-hour exam including a synoptic assessment with a weighting of 35%. • Making a short film. This is a non-exam assessment with a weighting of 30%.
About Education Provider
| Region | London |
| Local Authority | Barnet |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | Unknown |
| Sixth Form Fee | £19,059 - £22,980 |
| Address | 149 North End Road, London, NW11 7HY |
The new, linear OCR Film Studies A-level course involves a detailed analysis of the forms and conventions of film. It combines practical production in conjunction with written, theoretical examinations. Any required technical skills will be taught in Year 12, including the use of digital DSLRs, camcorders and Final Cut Pro X. Students are encouraged to watch and analyse all forms of film – including British independent, short films, European experimental films, documentaries and Hollywood blockbusters – to gain a thorough understanding of film conventions and industry practices. Students develop their understanding of the film industry through independent study, and it is recommended that they view films beyond the set film list, as well as keep abreast of industry developments through online features, film magazines, TV and radio podcasts dedicated to the business of film. They will also take part in workshops and screenings at the British Film Institute and our own Phoenix Theatre. Students will develop their practical skills to the point at which they can make independent decisions about research and planning, production and post-production. Year 1 • Studying Film – exploring film history through microelements, such as cinematography, editing and sound. Film choices include 2001: A Space Odyssey and The General. • Contemporary US and UK film industries – looking at film as text, covering elements of narrative, genre and representation in films like Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Ex-Machina. • Practical – short filmmaking – students make either a four to five-minute short film from script to screen or a 10-page screenplay with photographed plans and storyboards. Students watch a selection of eight short films, which should inspire them in terms of camera, mise en • scene, narrative and representation. All practical work is produced individually by each student, though they are encouraged to put together a crew to assist on shooting days. Year 2 • European Cinema – part of the Film History examination, this unit explores film movements like German Expressionism as well as the experimental nature of the film, from Nosferatu to L’Age D’Or. • Documentary Film – filmmaking, theory and critical debates on naturalism and narrative. Film choices include Searching for Sugar Man and Man on Wire. • Ideology across three films – a theme-based unit, which explores films from an ideological perspective. For example, themes of family and home will be compared across Moonrise Kingdom, A Separation and Room.
In general, external applicants are required to achieve at least five GCSE passes at Grade 6 or above (as required by individual subjects) for entry into our A-level courses. Grade 6 in English and at least one other art or humanities subject.
Written examinations account for 70% of the overall qualification, so students must possess very good analytical and literacy skills. There are three assessments in total: • Film history. This is a two-hour exam with a weighting of 35%. • Critical approaches to film. This is a two-hour exam including a synoptic assessment with a weighting of 35%. • Making a short film. This is a non-exam assessment with a weighting of 30%.