Media Scholars Pathway
At St Matthew Academy, we believe talent deserves to shine.
Our three-year Media and Communication Scholarship Programme offers young filmmakers the chance to follow their creative passion and turn dreams into reality.
The Media & Communication Scholarship is one of our most sought-after opportunities, loved by both parents and students. It combines the excitement of hands-on learning with the chance to develop invaluable media skills—all while using industry-standard equipment to bring bold, creative ideas to life. Participation in the Media Scholars Pathway can lead to studying Film Studies at GCSE Level.
Exclusive Access. Real-World Experience.
From day one, Media and Communication Scholars at St Matthew Academy get exclusive access to our state-of-the-art media suite, with a fully equipped green screen studio and a dedicated editing room featuring the latest Mac workstations. Pupils will master the operation of professional-grade camera gear, including DSLR cameras, while building a strong foundation in cinematography, photography, and pre- and post-production. With guidance, they will also dive into the world of editing short films, audio, and special effects using Final Cut Pro X, an industry-leading software.
What are we looking for?
- Dedication to the SMA Media and Communication Pathway, including active participation in weekly after-school clubs.
- A passionate, respectful attitude, strong work ethic, and ambition.
- A willingness to take on the role of Media Ambassador for school events.
- A deep sense of pride in representing both the academy and the media department.
A Journey of Creative Discovery
Our programme unfolds over Key Stage 3, nurturing creativity and building confidence every step of the way:
Year 7: pupils get hands-on experience with photography techniques, social media vlogging, and digital safety. They'll also explore photo and video editing software.
Year 8: the focus shifts to pre-production, where pupils learn scriptwriting, storyboarding, stop-motion animation, and advanced video editing.
Year 9: pupils apply everything they have learned to create a short film and dive into the world of creative advertising.
Beyond the Classroom
The learning experience extends far beyond the classroom. Our scholars compete in industry-related competitions, attend exclusive field trips, and participate in professional workshops. Notable highlights include visits to Warner Bros. Studios: The Making of Harry Potter, Sky Academy, and the BBC Young Reporters Programme, along with hands-on sessions with media professionals and dedicated holiday camps designed to deepen their skills and spark creativity.
And the cherry on top—we host our very own Academy Oscars: a glamorous red-carpet event where pupils showcase their creative work and are celebrated for their achievements.
For more details about the Media and Communication Scholarship Programme, please contact:
Media Pathway Lead: Aysha Asad – aas@stmatthewacademy.co.uk
Film Studies Lead: Margaret England – men@stmatthewacademy.co.uk
