Art Design (A Level)
Why study Art & Design?
The study of Art & Design will deepen your understanding of the visual world across different times and cultures and introduce you to the diverse roles and functions of art in contemporary life. A foundation in this subject can lead to a wide range of career opportunities in the creative industries, an area experiencing great expansion in this country. Art & Design is important because all sectors of the job market require creative thinkers who can innovate, see and make connections, solve problems and make informed decisions and judgements. This course will give you many transferable skills you can use in the future.
Entry Requirements
In addition to our general entry requirements, you must have:
- GCSE English – grade 4
- GCSE Art & Design – grade 4
The Course
For this course the emphasis is on fine art. You are able to develop as an artist by learning about and using a range of techniques that include drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking. Your study of artists and designers, past and present, will also help you to work imaginatively on your own ideas. Research and preparatory work are an important part of the course.
Course Activities
Lessons will be predominantly devoted to the production of practical work. You will be given clear demonstrations of processes and you will be given time in which to explore these both in small groups and independently. You will be encouraged to talk about your work using specialist vocabulary and to discuss your ideas and your understanding of other artists’ work with your tutor and fellow students. You should be prepared to write about both your ideas and the work of others. Written evaluation forms an extremely important part of this course. Your sketchbooks should be thoroughly annotated. There is a strong emphasis on creativity, personal expression and visual skills. Practical workshops will enable you to explore a variety of different ways, means and processes. Homework is set weekly and you should allow at least five hours per week to complete this. The art studios are available by arrangement for students wishing to complete additional or outstanding work. Students are also expected to participate in gallery visits and conduct independent research.
Career and Progression Opportunities
Many Art & Design students choose to pursue their studies at a higher level and there are two main pathways: an Art Diploma (Foundation) or direct entry into Higher Education. There are many possible career options from advertising, archaeology and costume design to film and television production, illustration and landscape architecture.
Course Structure and Assessment
This is a two-year course
| Component title and content | Assessment |
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Component 1: Personal Investigation
Practical work: You will identify and select a focus for personal creative ideas. You will also undertake investigative and research work appropriate to your focus. You will explore media and processes.
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Personal study: You will focus on a selected aspect of others’ art, craft, design or art movement which is related to your own practical work. You will develop and produce a personal enquiry which will culminate in an illustrated critical written communication of a minimum of 1,000 words
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| Component 2: Externally Set Assignment You will respond to a given theme and develop your ideas during a preparation period for the examination. |
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Additional Information
Examination Board: WJEC (Eduqas)
Students are expected to do a minimum of 4.5 hours each week of independent study. In this time, you will build up evidence in your sketchbooks of visual recording, researching, contextual linking, developing ideas, experimenting, reviewing and refining work.