The following courses are available for study in 2026

Media Studies:   12Med   Full Year

Course Description: Students start the year by examining Edge of Tomorrow's narrative. They'll then complete filmmaking challenges, learning to use various filmmaking equipment and edit with the Adobe suite. Students can also purchase the Adobe suite at a heavily discounted rate.

The main assessment involves planning and producing a group media product—either a podcast series or a short film. Filming is expected to be done in their own time, likely during the Term 3 school holidays. Additionally, students will complete an external exam on the science fiction film genre.

This course is ideal for students with a genuine interest in film, and it's also useful for those interested in the filmmaking industry, television, and marketing.

Recommended Entry Criteria: 14 credits in Enb or Ena.

Qualifications to be gained: Level 2 Achievement Standards, 18 credits total.

UE Literacy: 4 credits Reading or Writing. Optional 3 UE Writing Credits.

Next step: 13Med

Contact Person: Mr Thurston jwt@shirley.school.nz

Media Studies:   13Med   Full Year

Course Description: Students begin the year with two readings on a documentary film. They'll then complete filmmaking challenges, learning to use various filmmaking equipment and edit with the Adobe suite. Students can purchase the Adobe suite at a heavily discounted rate.

The main assessment involves planning and producing a group documentary film. Filming is expected to be done in their own time, likely during the Term 3 school holidays. Additionally, students will complete an external exam on the documentary film genre.

This course is ideal for students with a genuine interest in film, and it's also useful for those interested in the filmmaking industry, television, and marketing.

Recommended Entry Criteria: At least 14 credits in Level 2 Media Studies, if not studied by application through Mr. Thurston. 

Qualifications to be gained: Level 3 Achievement Standards, 20 credits total.

UE Literacy: Yes - 4 credits Reading or Writing (possible 3 credits Writing internal by negotiation).

UE Approved: - Yes

Contact Person: Mr Thurston jwt@shirley.school.nz and/or Mr Thompson ntt@shirley.school.nz