Aims

• To develop knowledge and understanding of the visual elements and principles of design.

• To explore a wide range of materials and processes in the making of artwork and to develop skills with understanding of media and working practices.

• To use these skills, knowledge and understanding to communicate your observations, ideas and responses to society (past and present, western and non-western) and the environment.

Course Content

An enjoyable and stimulating programme for anyone who likes drawing, painting & print-making, using a wide range of materials, including computers.  You will work on a range of scales but most of your ideas will be explored from first hand studies in the form of a work journal.  You will work on a given theme and be encouraged to interpret it in a personal way, documenting how your own ideas have evolved.  

Assessment Structure

Unit 1 (60%): Personal portfolio developed over two years which incorporates work produced under controlled conditions.

Unit 2 (40%): Externally set assignment in Year 11 under exam conditions.  This is internally assessed and then externally moderated.

You need to

• Be interested in and like drawing.

• Be prepared to explore and experiment with a wide range of media, techniques, painting, printing, construction, modelling, ICT, textiles and graphic communication.

• Be organised and prepared to use a sketchbook to research, explore and develop ideas both in class and at home.

• Be interested in finding out about other artists and their work.

• Be committed to working hard in an organised and independent way.

A GCSE course in Art can lead to ‘A’ level Art and/or A Level Photography in the 6th Form. This could lead toward a career in art, architecture, film-making, art therapy, teaching, conservation/restoration, interior design or photography. 

For further information, see Miss Rainbow (Subject Leader) or Mrs Gale (Head of Creative Arts Faculty)