KS4 CREATIVE MEDIA
Creative Media is offered within the English Department, and is an option which students can elect to pick from Year 10 up to Sixth Form.
Students will have five lessons a fortnight and follow the Pearson Creative Media external exam board we use for their formal exams at the end of Year 11.
Creative Media is taught by Andrew Chatora, who hails from Zimbabwe, where he taught English for seven years, before immigrating to England. Andrew is well settled in England, which he warmly considers his other home, and is an avid scholar, writer, Film and Television critique. Andrew has an MA in Media, Culture and Communication from The UCL.
With an emphasis on discussion, written communication and practical pursuits; Creative Media helps students develop a range of important skills for the future.
Creative Media is the paradigm of English, as Communication, in that both disciplines complement each other well.
Students who take Creative often do better in English, as they are learning the same skills. In the English and Media Department, at The Bicester School, we are happy to celebrate this symbiotic relationship.
KS4 Topics by year
Year 10
Introduction to Creative Media
Component 1 Exploring Media Products
- Introduction to different media sectors (film, TV, digital, publishing, etc.)
- Analysis of media products and their audiences
- Understanding purpose, genre, and style
Component 1 Exploring Media Products
- In-depth analysis of media products
- Exploring techniques and conventions used in media
- Investigating how media products engage audiences
Developing Practical Skills
Component 2 Developing Digital Media Production Skills
- Introduction to practical media production (e.g., photography, video, audio)
- Learning about pre-production, production, and post-production processes
- Experimenting with equipment and software
Media Production Project
Component 2 Developing Digital Media Production Skills (continued)
- Planning and creating a media product (individually or in groups)
- Reviewing and evaluating production work
- Reflecting on skills developed
Component 2 – Developing Digital Media Production Skills (Part 1)
- Pre-Production Skills
- Generating ideas and responding to a client brief.
- Creating mood boards, storyboards, and scripts
- Planning and organising production work
- Practical Workshops
- Introduction to technical skills: photography, video, sound recording, editing
- Experimenting with software and equipment
Component 2 – Developing Digital Media Production Skills (Part 2)
- Production Skills
- Applying technical skills to create media content (e.g., magazine covers, short videos, web pages)
- Working in teams to manage production tasks
- Documenting the production process
- Post-Production Skills
- Editing and refining media products
- Receiving and acting on feedback
Year 11
Responding to a Brief
Component 3 Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief
- Understanding the requirements of a client brief
- Researching and generating ideas
- Planning a media product to meet the brief
Production and Development
Component 3 Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief (continued)
- Developing and refining ideas
- Producing the media product using practical skills
- Documenting the production process
Finalising and Evaluating
Component 3 Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief (continued)
- Completing the final media product
- Evaluating the effectiveness of the product against the brief
- Reflecting on personal development and learning
Review and Exam Preparation
Revision and Portfolio Completion
- Reviewing all components and coursework
- Preparing for external assessment Component 3
- Finalising portfolio for submission
Final Submission and Review
Finalising Portfolio
- Preparing the final submission for external assessment
- Ensuring all documentation and evidence is complete
- Presentation
- Presenting the finished product and process to peers and teachers
Consolidation & Progression
Review of Learning
- Reflecting on skills, strengths, and areas for improvement.
- Exploring progression routes: Level 3 courses apprenticeships, or employment in media
- Celebrating Success
- Showcasing work in a class exhibition or digital portfolio
Key Contact
If you would like any more information about this subject, please contact Andrew Chatora, Head of Media: andrew.chatora@thebicesterschool.org.uk