A Level Art and Design

The structure of the A Level course is very similar to that of GCSE. Students begin by looking at artists, explore media and skill, develop these into a personal response, which can be hugely varied depending on personal interests and preferences.

Students create a portfolio of work, known as their ‘Personal Investigation’ which carries 60% of the final mark. This is followed by the exam project, where the resolution of learners’ ideas, from the preparatory work must be completed during the designated 15 hours and must show how their planning relates to the outcome/s.

We aim to provide opportunities for students to visit galleries & artist events to gain a deeper understanding in their chosen field and encourage students to make independent choices. There is also an extended written element of 1000 words minimum, which may contain images and texts and must clearly relate to practical and theoretical work using an appropriate working vocabulary and specialist terminology.

Students will have the opportunity to have guided one-to-one sessions to prepare their portfolios in preparation for university if they choose.

If you are creative, imaginative, patient, open minded, resilient, motivated, hardworking and organised you will enjoy this course! There will be opportunity to visit places of cultural relevance, take part in workshops, and expand your knowledge of the arts in a contextual way.

You will have a personal Art space to work in and make your own, one-to-one specialist guidance and support throughout from experienced teachers as well as opportunities to discuss career paths and prepare for next steps.

Students will start the course by exploring new techniques and approaches, with a focus on experimentation. We encourage students to explore more challenging themes when starting their ‘Personal Investigation’ as well as techniques which lead into more complex and varied outcomes. Work will be discussed during regular one-to-one tutorials to ensure there will be a sufficient body of work.

The WJEC Eduqas A Level in Art and Design is a two-year linear qualification and consists of two components:

Component 1: Personal Investigation, 60% of qualification, internally assessed, externally moderated.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment, 40% of qualification, internally assessed, externally moderated.

To study A Level Art and Design, students require a GCSE Grade 6 or equivalent in Art and Design or a similar subject title (does not include Art & Design (Photography) or Design Technology).

If students do not study GCSE Art and Design, an interview with a portfolio of work will be required.

The UK is known and respected world-wide for its successful creative industries and university courses; from Fashion to Architecture, Book Illustration to Fine Art, Graphics and Animation, there is a huge range to choose from! Many students go on to do an Art Foundation Course in preparation to university, as this offers further exploration into some of these fields, however some decide they want to go straight on to a degree course.

There will be a designated area in the Art room for notices, open days and other opportunities which students can look at in their own time.