A very challenging and rewarding course developing students creative practical skills and understanding of art elements and art principals. Art can challenge students to become independent thinkers, problem solvers and to look at the world with fresh eyes and thought. Practical coursework follows the Fine Art syllabus, consisting of drawing, painting, sculpture, digital photography and other mixed media. Art history is linked with coursework.
Please see the following link for the syllabus:
Pearson Edexcel A level Art and Design
Entry Requirements
5 GCSE grades at 5 or above
Grade 6 or above in GCSE Art
Fine Art
In Year 12, students will be introduced to A Level art with several workshops in the first half term to explore techniques, increase creativity and gain more problem-solving skills. Pupils will be introduced to the main coursework section of their course; pupils will be expected to build on observational, practical skills as well as developing understanding of materials through exploration. Also investigate the importance of referring to the work of others and reach several unique outcomes. Pupils will also start their critical work (essay) that links to their own investigations. Pupils will also sit a mock exam.
In Year 13, students will continue to develop and investigate their coursework theme. Pupils will get to explore with intend and extend personal investigation leading to a final outcome. Pupils will continue to work on their critical investigation of up to 3000 words. Pupils will then be introduced to the exam section of their work and sit an 15hrs. Pupils will get the opportunity to visit museums and galleries.
Assessment:
Component 1- 60%
Portfolio of practical work and critical study
Component 2- 40%
Externally Set Examination
What students say:
Just like science, maths or English, the world around us is the way it is because of Art. Whether it be in a painting in a gallery, the design of a building, or even the logo om your favourite T-shirt, art is all around us, enriching our lived, which is why it is such an important subject to explore. Taking art at an exam level not only changes the way you see the world, but also hones practical skills such as hand-eye coordination, making creative solutions and problem solving, all of which are vital in the world of work, regardless of the field. With so many academic subjects following similar routines and stresses, art gives you an outlet for all your thoughts, ideas and opinions in whatever form you choose. More than anything, art really helps you transition from being a student in school to being independent in your work and drive ready for your next steps after sixth form.
Tilly Holt- Year 13
Progression
Entry onto a Foundation course is the usual next step for those intending a career in the Art and Design field. Art is also recognised as a valid qualification for the purposes of College and University courses.
A variety of employment in the creative industries of Art and Design. See a selection below:
Fine Art: Painter, Sculptor, Printer, Architectural Illustrator, Graphic Illustration, Tattoo Artist, Special Effects, Curator, Gallery Director, Teacher/Lecturer, Art Therapist, Television and Film Production.
Photography: Fashion Photographer, Photo Journalist, Advertising Photographer, and many jobs in the film industry.
Writing Analysis: Art Historian, Art Critic, Arts and Cultural Planner, Graphic Novel Designer, Art Administrator.
Fashion/Textiles: Accessory Designer, Fashion Designer, Fashion Consultant, Costume Designer, Fibre Artist.
Graphic Designer: Advertising Designer or Director, Magazine Layout, Packaging Designer, Logo/Branding designer.
Spatial Design: Architect, Landscape Architect, Set Designer, Interior Designer, Urban Planner, Expo Designer.
Digital/Multi Media: Digital 3D Modeller, Animator, digital Illustrator, Web Designer, Film Editor, Special Effects.
3D Designer: Jewellery Designer, Industrial Designer (Bridges, Cars, Trainers etc.) Prop Designer, Ceramic Designer.
Photography
Photography is a very challenging and exciting subject that allows pupils to explore and push the limits of Photography. Turning images from being flat to 3D and even digital. Pupils can gain problem solving skills, computer editing techniques, independent work skills as well as be able to develop a personal response to a theme.
In Year 12, students will be introduced to A Level Photography with several workshops in the first half term to explore techniques, increase creativity and gain more problem-solving skills. Pupils will be introduced to the main coursework section of their course; pupils will be expected to build on practical skills as well as developing understanding of materials through exploration. Also investigate the importance of referring to the work of others and reach several unique outcomes. Pupils will also start their critical work (essay) that links to their own investigations. Pupils will also sit a mock exam. There is an element of drawing that is required.
In Year 13, students will continue to develop and investigate their coursework theme. Pupils will get to explore with intend and extend personal investigation leading to a final outcome. Pupils will continue to work on their critical investigation of up to 3000 words. Pupils will then be introduced to the exam section of their work and sit an 15hrs. Pupils will get the opportunity to visit museums and galleries.
Assessment:
Component 1- 60%
Portfolio of practical work and critical study
Component 2- 40%
Externally Set Examination
Progression:
With the increase of Photography being used within different outlets Photography is a good subject to take if you want to go into any number of different further education.
You can go on to study Media, Fine Art, Television and Film Industrial courses, Graphic Design, Advertisement, PR, Business, Education in both schools, colleges and Universities and many more.
Pupils who have previous been taught A Level Photography have gone on to study at universities in Graphic Design at Huddersfield, Public relations and Media at Birmingham and Fine Art in Aberystwyth.
Please Note:
Students taking the course will be required to make a financial contribution to art gallery visits. They will also need to build up specialist materials and equipment which they can use at home.