SBL Online

The media is all around us – it is part of our lives whether we like it or not. It is important that we understand the media’s role in society, to be able to make judgements about it, and not blindly believe all that we see, hear and read. Just as importantly Media Studies fosters very valuable skills that are transferable to many other subject’s students are studying now or may do in the future. Media Studies is: -

Creative

Both BTEC and A Level will allow a student’s imagination and creativity full rein. Whether it be inventing original advertising materials as part of a campaign or editing digital video footage.

Practical

A strong practical element runs through all courses at SBL. Digital video editing using AppleMac computers is at the heart of AS, A2 and BTEC. ICT is also an important aspect of presentation in all Media Studies assignments.

Analytical

The deconstruction and critical analysis of media products is part and parcel of all media teaching. These are high-level skills that students will find useful in many areas of study.

Independent Study

Possibly the most useful skill students will develop is their ability to organise time effectively and learn important research techniques. This is especially true for Post-16 students – teachers act as facilitators and guides to aid students in their chosen study areas. Ownership of the research is with the students – a high level of commitment and motivation is needed in this subject.

The school offers a BTEC Diploma in Media at Key Stage 4, which includes video production, animation techniques, work on documentary, audience and general production techniques. Post-16 we offer AS and A2 Media Studies courses. This includes practical video production, analysing film to a high level, advanced research work that strongly echoes the style of working students will encounter as undergraduates, work on gender issues and news broadcasting.

We also host the Kingswood Partnership Student Film Festival in March every year.