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Where will this course lead?

On successful completion of the course you will be qualified to enter Higher Education to pursue a Higher National Diploma or Degree course. You will also develop the necessary skills to enter the workplace or apprenticeship should you choose to do so. You could even proceed to freelance work.

What will I study?

This Level 3 course gives you the opportunity to develop a range of skills, techniques and personal attributes essential for employment. All of our learners are able to access our state-of-the-art digital media facilities including a high-definition multi-camera television studio, radio studio and production suites. We have Apple Mac computers and industry standard software including Adobe Creative Suite and Final Cut Studio. We also have professional media equipment such as HD video cameras, lighting equipment, audio recorders etc. that is available to all Media students to use throughout the two years.

This Level 3 course is based on theory and practical assignments, giving you the opportunity to develop skills in a range of film and broadcast media related areas including:

· Television Production

· Film Production

· Radio Journalism

· Vlogging

· Editing

· Interactive Media

· Scriptwriting

· Film Reviewing

How will this course be delivered?

The course will have classroom-based lessons and workshops alongside practical based studio workshops and sessions. You will explore the different practical and theoretical elements of TV and radio production within the first year of this course allowing you the opportunity to create your own TV and radio shows. There will be a number of assignments each year which will allow students to work on their own choice of outcomes. Some of these assignments will require working with real clients and submitting films to film festivals. All students work will be submitted through online platforms such a websites and blogs.

What qualifications will I get?

The course leads to a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology (equivalent to three A-Levels). It is a two-year, full-time programme at Level 3.

How will I be assessed?

Your work will be assessed through the creation of production portfolios that demonstrate your understanding of practical and theoretical knowledge. You will manage productions, work in teams, research, pitch ideas and conduct interviews. The lecturing staff will introduce each new assignment as the course progresses. You will be assessed all the time you are working, but your main assessment is through assignment work, where you will be graded for each assignment and then given an overall grade for the final assignment of each year.

How do I get a place on the course?

You can apply through the College application process, via the website, telephone, or open events.

What are the entry requirements?

4 GCSEs at grade C / grade 4 or above including English Language and preferably a creative subject such as Art, Photography or Textiles, or a Level 2 qualification in a relevant vocational subject area at a Merit grade and GCSE English Language at grade C / grade 4 or above.

What else do I need to know?

As part of the programme you will undertake 'live' projects and work with real clients, which will give you an insight into the way the industry works. As a department we have strong industry links with local employers and large organisations that you will have the opportunity to work with during the second year of this course.
In the second year of the course you will also receive advice on university courses, apprenticeships and employment opportunities. Portfolio building will form an important part of the second year as you prepare for interviews.

What can I do after this course?

You can progress onto university, an apprenticeship, freelance employment, or full-time employment in a range of areas that include film, radio production, television production, journalism and post-production.

Location

Stratford-upon-Avon College

Start Date

Sept-2025

Day

TBC

Time

TBC

Course Fee

N/A For 16 to 18 Year Olds

Course Code

MESAA093SCF0

Study Mode

Full Time

Script Writer

Job holders in this unit group write, edit and evaluate literary material for publication including scripts and narrative for film, TV, radio and computer games and animations.

What’s Involved?

A Script Writer determines subject matter and researches as necessary by interviewing, attending public events, seeking out records, observing etc. They generate and develop creative ideas for literary material. They also select material for publication, check style, grammar and accuracy of content, arrange for any necessary revisions and check proof copies before printing.

TV or Film Camera Operator

Workers in this unit group operate and assist with still, cine and television cameras and operate other equipment to record, manipulate and project sound and vision for entertainment, cultural, commercial and industrial purposes.

What’s Involved?

A TV or Film Camera Operator selects subject and conceives composition of picture or discusses composition with colleagues; arranges subject, lighting, camera equipment and any microphones; inserts lenses and adjusts aperture and speed settings as necessary; operates scanning equipment to transfer image to computer and manipulates image to achieve the desired effect; photographs subject or follows action by moving camera; takes, records and manipulates digital images and digital video footage; controls transmission, broadcasting and satellite systems for television and radio programmes, identifies and solves related technical problems; checks operation and positioning of projectors, vision and sound recording equipment, and mixing and dubbing equipment; operates equipment to record, edit and play back films and television programmes; manages health and safety issues; operates sound mixing and dubbing equipment to obtain desired mix, level and balance of sound.

Director

Arts officers, producers and directors assume creative, financial and organisational responsibilities in the production and direction of television and radio programmes, films, stage presentations, content for other media, and the promotion and exhibition of other creative activities.

What’s Involved?

A Director chooses writers, scripts, technical staff and performers, and assumes overall responsibility for completion of project on time and within budget. They direct actors, designers, camera team, sound crew and other production and technical staff to achieve desired effects. They break script into scenes and formulate a shooting schedule that will be most economical in terms of time, location and sets. They also prepare rehearsals and production schedules for main events, design of sets and costumes, technical rehearsals and dress rehearsals. They ensure necessary equipment, props, performers and technical staff are on set when required. They also manage health and safety issues. They select, contract, market and arrange for the presentation and/or distribution of performance, visual and heritage arts.

TV, Video and Audio Engineer

TV, video and audio engineers service and repair domestic television, video and audio appliances.

What’s Involved?

TV, video and audio engineers examine equipment and observe reception to determine nature of defect. They use electronic testing equipment to diagnose faults and check voltages and resistance. They dismantle equipment and repair or replace faulty components or wiring. They also re-assemble equipment, test for correct functioning and make any necessary further adjustments. They carry out service tasks such as cleaning and insulation testing according to schedule.

Journalist

Jobholders in this unit group investigate and write up stories and features for broadcasting and for newspapers, magazines and other periodicals, evaluate and manage their style and content and oversee the editorial direction of these types of output and publication.

What’s Involved?

Journalists determine subject matter and undertake research by interviewing, attending public events, seeking out records, reviewing written work, attending film and stage performances etc. They write articles and features and submit draft manuscripts to newspaper, magazine, periodical or programme editor. They select material for broadcast or publication, check style, grammar, accuracy and legality of content and arrange for any necessary revisions. They also liaise with production staff in checking final proof copies immediately prior to printing.

Photographer

You could work in press photography, advertising photography, editorial photography, corporate photography, or go freelance!

What’s Involved?

Photographers select subjects and conceive composition of picture or discuss composition with colleagues. They arrange subject, lighting and camera equipment. They insert lenses and adjust aperture and speed settings as necessary. They also operate scanning equipment to transfer image to computer and manipulate image to achieve the desired effect. They photograph subject or follow action by moving camera. They also take, record and manipulate digital images and digital video footage.

Media Researcher

Media researchers support television, radio and documentary producers by finding out details of show contributors, locations and background information.

What’s Involved?

Media Researchers liaise with production team to generate and develop ideas for film, television and radio programmes. They research sources for accurate factual material, find suitable contributors to programmes or print features and deal with any copyright issues. They provide administrative support for programme development such as booking facilities. They present findings in the required format, via written reports or presentations. They also research images for clients in a wide range of media using specialist picture libraries and archives, museums, galleries etc., or commissions new images. They liaise with clients on the appropriate image/s to be used. They deal with copyright issues and negotiates fees.

Predicted Employment

How much can I earn?

£17,680
NATIONAL AVERAGE

Employment by Region

The career paths provided are to give you an idea of the careers that you could progress onto in the future. However, for some, you may need to complete higher level qualifications and gain experience before your dream job becomes a reality. The information provided is to support further research and to generate some initial career ideas when choosing a course. Please check entry requirements to degree courses, apprenticeships, and jobs as this may vary from year to year and across providers. For further advice and guidance, please contact: careers@solihull.ac.uk.