Fine Art and Photography are coursework-based subjects. 

What does revision in Art & Craft look like?

Course Structure

The course is divided into two key components:

1. Component 1: Portfolio (60%)

   • A collection of artwork based on a chosen theme or project.

   • Includes sketchbook or Google Slides work, experiments with different media, artist research, and final pieces.

   • Shows a journey of creative development, from initial ideas to refined outcomes.

2. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

   • A project set by AQA with a selection of starting points.

   • Students develop ideas, research artists, experiment with techniques, and create a final piece in a 10-hour supervised session.

How much Art & Craft revision should my child be doing?

Unlike traditional subjects, Fine Art and Photography do not require "revision" in the classical sense. Instead, success in these coursework-based subjects comes from consistent creative practice and regular development of their portfolio.

To stay on track and achieve their best possible grade, students should:

• Attend Lunchtime & After-School Sessions – These provide valuable teacher feedback, access to materials, and extra time to refine coursework.

• Work on Artwork at Home – Regular sketching, painting, or editing photographs will help build a strong body of work.

• Plan & Conduct Photoshoots on Weekends – Photography students should be actively taking and experimenting with images, considering composition, lighting, and subject matter.

• Keep Their Sketchbooks Up to Date – Annotating their creative journey, researching artists, and reflecting on progress is essential.

• Experiment with Different Techniques – Whether trying out new art materials or exploring editing software, developing skills outside of lesson time will strengthen their work.

Encouraging a steady and consistent approach to their coursework will be far more beneficial than last-minute cramming. Regular engagement with their projects will help them produce high-quality, thoughtful, and creative work that meets the GCSE assessment criteria.

How will my child know their strengths and areas for development? 

Throughout the GCSE Fine Art and Photography course, students receive regular feedback to help them understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback comes in several ways:

Teacher Feedback – Given during lessons, one-to-one discussions, and written comments in sketchbooks. Teachers highlight what is working well and suggest ways to develop ideas further.

Self-Assessment – Students are encouraged to reflect on their own work, identifying what they are proud of and what they need to refine. Annotating sketchbooks with thoughts on their progress is a key part of this.

Peer Feedback – Class critiques allow students to share ideas and gain insights from their peers, helping them see their work from different perspectives.

Assessment Criteria – Work is marked against GCSE grading criteria, covering:

• Development of ideas

• Experimentation with materials and techniques

• Recording observations and research

• Creating a final, well-presented outcome

Progress Reviews – At key points in the course, students receive more formal assessments with detailed feedback to help them improve before final submissions. 

Encouraging your child to act on feedback, experiment with new approaches, and refine their work over time will help them reach their full potential. Consistency, creativity, and engagement with the artistic process are key to success!

So how exactly can I help?

As a parent, you can play a crucial role in supporting your child’s success in GCSE Fine Art and Photography. Here are some key ways to help:

1) Help Them Get Organised

• Encourage them to keep track of deadlines and coursework requirements.

• Help them create a schedule to manage their time effectively.

• Ensure they bring their art folder and their charged iPad to school.

2) Provide a Quiet Space to Work

• A well-lit, clutter-free area at home will help them focus.

• Allow time for uninterrupted creative work.

• Ensure they have access to basic art supplies (if this may be difficult, please contact school) or a school iPad.

3) Encourage Regular Practice

• Support them in attending lunchtime and after-school art sessions.

• Suggest they spend time at home developing their sketchbooks or editing photographs.

• For Photography, help plan and arrange weekend photoshoots in different locations.

4) Discuss Their Work & Offer Encouragement

• Show an interest in their projects by asking questions about their ideas and inspirations.

• Praise their effort and creativity, not just the final outcome.

• Remind them that experimenting and making mistakes is part of the creative process!

5) Expose Them to Creative Inspiration

• Take them to free galleries, exhibitions, or even outdoor locations for inspiration.

• Encourage them to research different artists and photographers.

• Suggest they watch tutorials or read about techniques to develop their skills.

Your encouragement, patience, and support will make a huge difference in their confidence and progress. A little structure at home can help them stay motivated and produce their best work!