Art and Design

Why study Art and Design?

The main purpose of any course in Art and Design is to develop your ability to appreciate the visual world, and respond in a personal and creative way. You will develop:

• a working knowledge of materials, practices and technology within art
• the skills to interpret and convey your ideas and feelings using art and design
• your imaginative and creative powers and your experimental, analytical and critical skills
• the knowledge and understanding of the place of art and design in history and in contemporary society

We run a number of visits to galleries in London and a residential visit to Paris or another destination to develop this understanding. This course is suitable for students who:

• wish to undertake further studies in art or design
• will study subjects or take up careers for which an art background is relevant (these might include advertising, graphics, fashion design, architecture and museum, theatre or art gallery work)
• have an interest in and aptitude for the subject, but who do not intend to take the subject beyond A Level (this course will extend the breadth of the curriculum for these students)

Entry Requirements

You need at least a grade 6 in GCSE Art or a 6 or B in another design subject such as Textiles. If you have an aptitude for the subject, if you are creative and are prepared to work hard at developing your abilities, you will have the basic skills to succeed. You should have an understanding of the basic elements of art and design - colour, tone, form etc, and also some understanding of the place of art and design in the world. Above all, you should have an interest in creating and understanding art and want to develop that interest.

Special features of the course

The opportunity for you to develop your own particular strength, style and way of working is what makes this course unique. Increasingly you will be able to plan your own assignments and to explore your own interests in Art.

Costs

Paris or other destination trip (4 days, optional) - £500-£600

Gallery trips - £10 - £15 (depending on location)

Portfolios/sketchbooks - £5 - £10 (depending on size)

Canvas board - 75p - £3 (depending on size)

Printer credits - £5 (depending on usage)

Where can I find out more?

See Mrs Hartwell or Miss Beattie

How is the course organised?

Autumn Term Year 12: Environment project

Spring Term Year 12: Externally Set Assignment (ESA) set by the exam board. Students do not sit an exam but use the themes set as the starting points for their first component.

Summer Term Year 12 and Autumn Term Year 13: Independent coursework assignment practical and written investigation (essay).

Spring Term Year 13: ESA set by the exam board.

Assessment

The A Level is made up of 2 units over 2 years:

Coursework 60% Externally Set Assignment 40%