Programme outline
Areas covered in this programme includes:
- Contextual 'building blocks' of film. The history, its arc and role in popular culture, and the components that make for compelling and memorable films.
- The 'toolbox' of filmmaking. Camera, lights, sound, and editing. Project based learning is practical and includes 'in-camera edit shoots, music video production and much more,
- The art of successful scriptwriting as it applies to the film industry. What makes a successful story and how to break this down to a screen ready plan.
- Robust pre and post-production planning.
- Discovering the process of editing and how to apply practical knowledge with creative flair to stamp personal marks upon shot sequences.
- Planning, shooting and editing of a short 5-minute film and End of Year (EOY) project.
Entry requirements
NCEA Level 2 or equivalent academic achievement or on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Programme Manager.
International students
IELTS 5.5 (no band lower than 5), or equivalent
Find your country's equivalent academic entry requirements here
*For fee exclusions, please see our terms and conditions. International ākonga study grants are available. Contact international@wandw.ac.nz for eligibility details.
Related study options
Career options
- Director, Director of Photography (DOP)
- 1st AD (Assistant Director)
- Production Manager
- Camera Operator (ARRI )
- Editor (Avid)
- Props, Gaffer, Grip, Sound
- Continuity
- Assistants
- Digital Content Creator
Showcasing ākonga work — television commercials
As part of their studies, screen production ākonga (students) complete industry-style projects that put their technical and creative skills to the test. In 2024, students were tasked with producing television commercials for Resene, promoting their environmental paint range.
From concept development and pitching through to filming, lighting, sound, and editing, ākonga managed every stage of production using professional tools like the ARRI Alexa camera. They also collaborated with makeup, special effects, and Digital Media & Design ākonga on animations and set design.
The finished commercials were applauded for their creativity, polish, and clear understanding of brand storytelling, reflecting the calibre of work screen production ākonga can produce before they’ve even graduated.
Watch the commercials below!
Whitireia and WelTec are a business division of Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.
Last updated: 13/10/2025
