Art & Design

Art and Design A-Level offers a broad practical course exploring practical and critical/contextual work through a range of 2D and /or 3D processes and new media and technologies, maximising opportunities for a stimulating experience of art, craft and design making activities. Explore a range of artists and designer’s - contemporary and traditional. Experiment with a wide range of media. Formulate opinions about art and its place in the 21st century and an opportunity to explore social issues through the medium of art.

Structure of the course

AS Unit 1—Personal Enquiry /Portfolio of Work...no exam!

This accounts for 40% of the total A-Level and consists of an extended, exploratory project and outcome/s based on themes and subject matter which are personal and meaningful to the learner. The Enquiry must integrate, practical and theoretical work. Work is carried out in sketchbooks and individual larger studies which build up and develop into a final outcome.

Work is assessed early May.

A2 Unit 2—Personal Investigation

This consists of a major in-depth critical, practical and theoretical investigative project/portfolio and outcomes/s based on themes and subject matter that have personal significance. It also consists of an extended written element of 1000 words minimum, which may contain images and texts and must clearly relate to practical and theoretical work. This accounts for 36% of the qualification. Again students develop work in and out of sketchbooks.

A2 Unit 3—Externally Set Assignment

This accounts for 24% of the qualification. The exam paper is issued from 1st February (in the second year of the course) and students select one of the questions/themes to pursue. Ten weeks’ preparatory time is allowed to record from primary sources and investigate the work of related artists, experiment with materials and develop ideas. A 15 hr practical exam is sat at the end of April. Work is assessed early May.

Career paths and next steps

A qualification in this subject equips students to access a range of Art and Design courses at a higher level including the Art and Design Foundation Course.

FAQ about the subject

Is Art a viable and profitable career choice?

Yes, the Creative Arts are rapidly becoming the fastest growing industry in the UK and is taking a leading role in boosting the UK economy.

How successful have students been in gaining jobs within the industry?

We have an excellent track record of students gaining very prestigious jobs in design fields and areas of Art and Design. We follow an unendorsed Art and Design syllabus which encompasses Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Graphics, illustration and 3D Art. We work to student strengths to maximise their potential.

What are the requirements for a student to take the subject at A Level?

The requirement is normally a C grade at GCSE.

Teacher Profiles

C Prosser (BA HONS) Graphic Design

Mrs S Edwards (BA HONS) Art, Design and Media-Illustration

Mrs N Stephenson (BA HONS) Art