Media is an exciting and dynamic subject and one that proves consistently popular with students here at WMSF. It has become ever more important for you to be able to understand the messages that surround you in your media-saturated world and we give you the tools not only to analyse and critically evaluate media texts but also to create them. The strong practical elements in media are provided for well by the area with dedicated classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art imacs, media specialist software and a range of filming equipment.

To cater for the different levels, needs and abilities of students at WMSF, we run Media Studies and Film Studies at GCSE whilst the Advanced Level programme includes Media Studies, Applied Media: Communication and Production, and Film Studies. We are committed and enthusiastic teachers who have an in-depth subject knowledge and bring vital industry experience to the classroom.

Beyond the classroom, you will also have the chance to enhance your learning through visits to media companies and events. This year we have visited a number of these companies including the BBC, RDF Media and Revolution Films.

Students have also participated in the filming of Sky's football programme 'Off the Bar'.

We also encourage you to enter competitions, work collaboratively with other curriculum areas and gain work experience with our guidance and support.

This year alone, students have made music videos in collaboration with the performing arts students, worked with the Metropolitan Police on their anti-binge drinking campaign, and, in June 2009, three students won a short film competition run in association with Channel 4's 4Talent programme.

Every year we celebrate students' achievement by holding a media showcase at The Riverside Studios and our own awards ceremony which was hosted, this year, by the head of Production Resources at RDF Media, Julia Waring, whilst 2008's showcase was hosted by the actor, James Nesbitt.

A true measure of the success and enjoyment of students on the media and film courses at WMSF is that a large proportion go on to study media or film related subjects at university.