A-Level Graphic Communication

Students will be required to demonstrate skills in all of the following:

• awareness of intended audience or purpose for their chosen area(s) communication

• ability to respond to an issue, concept or idea, working to a brief or answering a need in the chosen area(s) of graphic communication

• appreciation of the appropriate use of typography (which could include hand lettering and calligraphy)

• understanding of a variety of materials and genres appropriate to their chosen area(s) of graphic communication

Students are required to work in one or more of the following area(s): advertising, packaging design, design for print, illustration and/or branding.

Students will study two components across the two year course: 

• Component 1:  Personal Investigation (60% of final grade)

• Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40% of final grade)  

Requirements for Study

Students should be proficient and confident in Art and Design, have some understanding of practical working, and have a desire to contribute creatively.

Minimum APS:

• 3 A Levels - 4.5

• 2 A Levels & 1 Vocational - 4

• 1 A Level   & 2 Vocational - 3.8

Subject Specific: 

• 9 - 4 in English Language or English Literature

• A good developed portfolio and/or 9-5 in an Art subject

Assessment

Component 1: students develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1000 and no more than 3000 words which supports the practical work.

Component 2: students respond to a stimulus, provided by AQA, to produce work which provides evidence of their ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response which addresses all the assessment objectives and leads to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. 

Careers

Students taking this qualification would be able to apply to university to take courses at any BA (Hons) degree or equivalent in any Art related course or pathway. It could lead to exciting career paths, including roles as a graphic designer, art director or brand strategist. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, graphic designers create impactful visual content for websites, products, apps, social media, and marketing campaigns.