This course will give students the freedom to study a GCSE subject in ways that inspires and brings out the best in their abilities, whilst equipping them with the skills to continue the subject with confidence at AS, A-level and beyond. The flexibility of the way that this course is run means students can tailor their studies to their interests and personal strengths.

When studying a GCSE in Photography students will work in one or more area(s) of photography, such as, portraiture, location photography, studio photography, experimental imagery, photo-journalism and fashion photography.

Students will develop and apply the relevant knowledge, understanding and skills they need to realise their personal intentions relevant to photography and they must demonstrate the ability to use photographic techniques and processes:lighting, viewpoint, aperture, depth of field, shutter speed and movement, digital processes. They are expected to use digital media, programs and related technologies including graphic media for storyboarding, planning and constructing photo shoots.

If you enjoy developing your visual skills being creative, enthusiastic and imaginative, visits to galleries, museums, workshops and studios experimenting and taking risks with your work then our GCSE Photography course is the ideal course for you.

What will I study?

The Photography GCSE is made up of two components, portfolio work and the final exam.

Component 1: Portfolio worth 60% - Internally set and internally marked.

The portfolio work will be created in years 9, 10 and the first term of year 11. You will work on a range of projects and at the end of year 11 you will select their best work and submit this for marking. The portfolio mark will account for 60% of their final grade.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment worth 40% - Externally set theme and internally marked. Assessed through 20 hours preparatory time and a 10 hour controlled assignment.

The final exam will be 10 hours, spread over a period of time and sat at the end of year 11. You will have from the beginning of January to prepare for the exam and complete all their preparation work. You will be given a range of themes/ words by the exam board and you will have to select and investigate one of these for their exam work.

How will I be assessed?

Each component is assessed separately out of 96 marks. All of their work will be marked according to how well you have met the 4 assessment objectives of developing Ideas, reviewing/experimenting, recording and presenting.

Assessment Objective 1 - Developing Ideas

You must develop their ideas for their projects by investigating various photographers, artists or designers.

You should also take photographs out of the classroom to gather photos that will aid their ideas.

You must analyse and annotate their images with their thoughts and opinions.

Always link their ideas back to their original research.

Assessment Objective 2 - Reviewing/Experimenting

You must show that you can explore and refine their ideas through experimentation.

You should select different techniques, process methods, resources, media and materials.

It should be clear how you are developing their ideas and that you are improving their work as you go.

Assessment Objective 3 - Recording

You can record their ideas, observations and insights in visual, written and other forms.

You should work from a range of experiences and stimulus materials.

You must talk and describe their work; what you have achieved at each stage and what you will do next.

Assessment Objective 4 - Presenting

You must present a personal, informed and meaningful response to a brief.

You should demonstrate analytical and critical understanding throughout.

You must present the culmination of their journey in a finished piece or pieces.

What further career options and pathways are available to you after this course?

On completion of a GCSE course in Photography, you could progress to further education.

Courses at Level 3 include:

BTEC Nationals in Art and Design, the Diploma in Creative and Media, GCSE AS Art and Design, Photography.

Below are a few examples of the many jobs and careers available within the creative sector which need young people with relevant skills.