Why should I choose this subject?
The study of GCE Art and Design creates a pathway to a future career in a creative or cultural field. It builds on the knowledge and skills developed at GCSE and Key Stage 3 and prepares students for further study in Art and Design or related study in a creative field.
Art and Design is unique in its inherent requirement to develop key transferable skills such as:
• creativity, personal motivation;
• project management and organisational skills;
• innovation, higher level thinking skills and problem-solving.
This qualification is designed to broaden and deepen knowledge, skills and contextual understanding of a range of art and design disciplines. Opportunities are available to develop key skills needed for the world of work:
• Application of number;
• Information technology;
• Improving own learning and performance;
• Communication development;
• Problem-solving and working with others.
It encourages students to find alternative approaches and to take risks in their work. It develops independent approaches to learning, aesthetic awareness and intellectual capabilities. Art and Design allows for personal responses and therefore is key in helping students explore their identity and their philosophical and spiritual relationships to the society in which they live.
How will I be assessed in this subject?
AS Unit 1
Coursework portfolio on a themed project as discussed with pupils and teachers Continual and internal monthly assessments. 50% of an ‘AS’
AS Unit 2
Externally set assignment/ exam Internally and externally assessed and worked on in the months February to May of the AS year. 50% of an ‘AS’
A2 Unit 1
A personal investigation on a themed project which will build your coursework portfolio to include a written investigation 1000-3000 words (externally assessed) Continual and internal monthly assessments. 60% of an ‘A2’
A2 Unit 2
Externally set assignment/ Exam Internally and externally assessed and worked on in the months February to May of the A2 year. 40% of an ‘A2’
What will I study?
AS 1
Experimental Portfolio
AS 2
Personal Response
A2 1
Personal and Critical Investigation
A2 2
Thematic Outcome
What career pathways are available to me if I study this subject?
A-Level Art and Design students develop the conceptual, visual literacy and communication skills necessary for critical thinking, independence of thought and self-expression. A great course suited to further study, A-Level Art and Design can start students on the path to a host of courses in Art & Design and careers including those in film, television, fashion, trend forecasting, publishing, journalism, academia, museum and art gallery work, landscape, architecture, photography, interior design, graphic and lens based media, textiles, 3 dimensional design, fine art, display, the fashion and clothing industry and the creative industries.
Extra Curricular Activities
If you choose to study Art & Design, you may have the opportunity to take part in the following activities;
National competitions such as Texaco Children’s Art and True Colours
Gallery and Museum Visits
Life Drawing Classes in Castlewellan Forest Park
Artist of the month
True Colours Exhibition
Junk Couture Competition
Live Design Briefs
Visiting Artist workshops including Photography, Special Effects Make-Up, Textile Techniques, Printmaking and Graphic Design
Set Design for School Production
Student Testimonials