CURRICULUM INTENT

The over-arching aim of the GCSE Film Studies Curriculum at Stonehenge is that all students who study it should leave the school with a broader experience of the world around them through the study of cinema. They will have watched a range of films covering the 1930s to the present day, and across a range of genres. They will have been empowered to ‘think big’ by considering the power of language and the moving image, its ability to inform, entertain, and influence, and the importance of having an awareness of it. Furthermore, they will have considered how understanding the time at which a film is made can not only influence the content and look of a film, but can reveal a powerful social or political message. 

Key Stage 3 introduces students to the history of cinema and the study of cinematography by exposing them to a range of films, and exploring their contexts.  Key Stage 4 takes then takes skills that students have developed over Key Stage 3, and applies them to the demands of the GCSE exams. At both Key Stages, students will experiment with filmmaking, leading to the creation of a coursework film or screenplay at KS4. 

View Pathway For Film Studies

Careers

Careers in Film Studies

Film Studies is about more than just watching movies – it’s the study of storytelling, visual communication, culture, and technology. It develops creativity, analytical thinking, and technical skills that are valuable in many industries.

Careers Directly Linked

• Film Director – leading the creative vision and bringing stories to life on screen.
• Screenwriter – writing scripts for films, TV, or streaming platforms.
• Cinematographer / Camera Operator – shaping the visual style and capturing the action.
• Film Editor – assembling footage into the final story.
• Producer – managing projects, budgets, and teams to deliver productions.

Wider Opportunities

• Broadcasting & Media – working in TV, online content, or news production.
• Marketing & Advertising – creating video campaigns and branded storytelling.
• Digital Content Creator – producing videos for YouTube, social media, and online platforms.
• Film Critic / Journalist – reviewing and writing about film and culture.
• Set Designer / Costume Designer – building the visual world of a production.

Transferable Skills

• Creative thinking and storytelling.
• Analysis and interpretation of visual media.
• Teamwork and project management.
• Technical skills in editing, filming, and sound.

Next Steps

Students often progress to Film, Media, Communications, or Production at college or university, or take apprenticeships in broadcasting, creative media, and digital content production. The UK’s film and TV industries are expanding rapidly, offering diverse and exciting career opportunities.