Summary of course
Our Creative Media programme will provide you with an opportunity to begin your journey in the exciting world of the media industry. Using industry-standard software and hardware in our purpose built Mac suites will give you the best possible start in developing the skills you will need to work in the fast-paced and creative environment of the media.
This two year programme develops your understanding of the media industries and the practical techniques required to work in the rapidly changing media environment.
At the start of the course, you will work with the basic skills of media production and management, developing your sound design and print layout; script writing; filmmaking; print production skills and digital photography skills and experience. As your level of proficiency increases the tasks will become more challenging, engaging and unlocking your creativity.
The course is taught through a range of approaches designed to provide you with the opportunity to develop technical skills for practical applications and real vocational experience or support with progression to university.
The aim is for all students to enjoy the course and achieve deep learning through which knowledge is developed, as well as gaining transferable skills including research techniques, presentations/pitches, projects and problem based scenarios and the skills of working in a team.
Delivery methods will include practical workshop sessions in our TV studio, media editing suites, radio and sound rooms. Classroom-based theory sessions are supported by IT and computer-based research, real-world media industry situations (including live broadcasts, video editing sessions, production company meetings) and educational visits to industry trade fairs and other media industry-related events. There will also be the opportunity to get a better understanding of the world of work through work experience opportunities.
Studying Level 3 Creative Media at Northampton College will give you the opportunity to further your aspirations by progressing on to university or into the work place.
There are opportunities to go on a number of trips and visits including to studios, television production companies and even to the United States of America. There are also opportunities to see your work displayed and screened at our annual CMA award ceremony.
Students who successfully complete this programme can progress to higher level study at University, work experience as an apprentice or look to find employment in the Creative Arts industries.
What will I study?
The units you will study are likely to include:
Specialist Units:
- Introduction to media processes and technical skills
- Introduction to design and research skills in creative media production
- Introduction to professional practice in creative media production
- Critical and contextual awareness in creative media production
- Investigating audio production and technology
- Investigating visual production and technology
- Investigating interactive production and technology
- Characteristics and contexts in creative media production
- Engaging with an audience in creative media production
- Preparing for progression in creative media production
- Specialist study in creative media production
All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.
How is the course assessed?
This course is assessed through:
- practical assignments, internally assessed
- written assignments, internally assessed
Your Study Programme
If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can. All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses). Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career. Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for you if you have an interest in working in the Creative Arts industries or want to study the subject to a higher level and wish to gain a Level 3 qualification in creative media.
Entry Requirements for new students
Four GCSEs at Grade 4-5 [C] or above including English Language/Literature, or a Level 2 Diploma in Media with English Language and Maths (GCSEs at Grade 3 [D] or Functional Skills L1)
Interview Requirements
You must bring your interview letter to your appointment and arrive 15 minutes before your interview is due to take place.
General Info (materials required for the course)
You will be asked to pay for materials and trips at enrolment. The fee is currently £50 to cover trips and £175 for a basic kit which includes 1 TB external hard-drive, 16gb SD card, BTEC course handbook, card reader, headphones and the use of an online portfolio for storing your work.
