Level 1 Diploma: Pathway to Media

Are you creative, enjoy using digital technology and interested in how media content is created?

This course is designed for learners who want to develop their skills in media production while building the confidence and experience needed for further study and future employment. You will gain an introduction to a variety of media practices, including content creation, visual communication, digital media and creative project work.

Through a range of practical and theory-based activities, you will develop your creativity, communication skills and understanding of how media content is planned, created and shared with audiences.

Alongside your main programme of study, you will have opportunities to develop employability, digital and personal development skills through enrichment activities, employer engagement and work experience opportunities.

To support future progression and life skills, students will study GCSE English and GCSE Maths and will continue to develop their skills through the study of these qualifications.

You will need a minimum of three GCSEs at Grade 2 or above (or equivalent qualifications). A qualification in a creative, media or digital subject would be beneficial but is not essential.

All applicants will be invited to attend an interview to discuss their interests, aspirations and suitability for the course.

An interest in media, content creation and digital technologies is essential. Previous experience through photography, video creation, design, social media content or other creative activities would be advantageous.

This course is designed to help learners develop the skills, behaviours and attitudes expected in further education and employment. Applicants should be willing to:

• Maintain good attendance and punctuality
• Demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Follow instructions and meet deadlines
• Show respect for staff, peers and the learning environment
• Engage positively in practical projects and work experience opportunities

Develop professional behaviours and communication skills

During this course, you will develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to progress to further study within Media and related creative industries.

You will learn about:

• Media production and content creation
• Creative thinking and idea generation
• Photography, video and digital media techniques
• Research, planning and project development
• Communication and teamwork skills
• Reviewing and improving your own work
• Personal development and employability skills

As part of your study programme, you will also participate in:

• Work experience opportunities
• Employer engagement activities
• Industry-related projects
• Enrichment activities and educational visits
• Development of digital and sustainability skills
• Personal and professional development activities

You will be studying Maths and English at GCSE level

This course is delivered on-site through a combination of practical workshops, creative projects and classroom-based theory sessions.

You will learn through:

• Practical media production activities
• Tutor-led lessons and demonstrations
• Individual and group projects
• Discussions and classroom activities
• Work experience and employer engagement opportunities
• Independent study and research
• Online and remote learning activities that support classroom learning and help develop digital skills

Throughout the course, you will be supported to develop the professional behaviours expected in education and the workplace, including good attendance, punctuality, teamwork, communication, organisation and respect for others.

You may be required to contribute towards the cost of educational visits and enrichment activities. Financial support may be available through the College’s Student Financial Support Fund, subject to eligibility.

You will also need access to basic stationery and be prepared to use digital learning platforms to support your studies.

Assessment is primarily through coursework, practical projects and portfolio work.

Assessment methods may include:

• Practical media projects
• Presentations and discussions
• Written assignments
• Research activities
• Group projects and collaborative tasks
• Reflective reviews and evaluations

You will be assessed on both your creative development and your ability to demonstrate employability skills such as communication, teamwork, organisation and professionalism.

For GCSE English and GCSE Maths you

 will complete the assessment requirements for those qualifications, including examinations.  

Further Study

Successful completion of this course can lead to progression onto a range of Level 2 programmes within the Creative and Digital Industries, including:

• Level 2 Creative Media
• Level 2 Creative Media Extended Certificate
• Fashion Business
• Esports
• Games Development
• Art and Design
• Music
• Performing Arts

Students will continue to develop their skills in English and Maths where required to support future progression.

Careers

This course provides a foundation for further study that could lead to careers in areas such as:

• Content Creation
• Social Media and Digital Marketing
• Photography
• Video Production
• Graphic Design
• Branding and Advertising
• Creative Media Production
• Digital Content Development

For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk