A Level - Art

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

 Studying Art will appeal to those of you who have an interest in creating and understanding Art, Craft and Design and the determination to develop that interest. This course builds on your understanding of the subject and creates an awareness of Art and Design in contemporary society as well as in other times and other cultures. You will use a range of design styles and techniques and will learn to develop your skills to a professional standard.

The emphasis of coursework is on individual projects that promote personal interpretation and the development of individual style.

In year one, students will study the relationship between ideas and Art and Design practice. There will be the opportunity to develop an understanding of the expressive nature of the formal elements of Art and Design, such as the use of line, colour and texture. Art History research is also an important part of the course.

Students will also have the opportunity to explore multiple pathways in art, craft and design such as:  Photography, Architecture, Graphics, 3D Design and Sculpture, Printmaking and Fine Art Textiles to broaden their understanding of art and develop a diverse portfolio of work.

In year two students will research, evaluate, analyse and establish links between their own practical work and the broader art world. Students will also produce a written project linked to practical final outcomes and will develop the ability to identify and resolve creative problems.

The course has been designed to ensure that not only are your practical skills and abilities developed, but also your ability to reflect on your own work and the work of others. You will produce supporting studies throughout the course, including a journal that is part sketchbook and part diary. You will be encouraged to experiment broadly and generate lots of ideas for each unit.

This A level gives students the potential to progress to university onto an art related degree course, through a pre-degree Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. The course could also lead to a career in teaching, fashion, gallery/museum management, architecture, interior design, graphics, film and television design, jewellery design, theatre/set design and production, TV/film art directing, or an artist or art technician.

WHAT DO I NEED TO JOIN THE COURSE?

6 GCSEs at 4 or above, ideally with a Grade 4 in GCSE Art is normally required. However if this GCSE has not been taken then a selection of artwork and sketchbooks, which demonstrates acceptable levels of skill, will be requested for consideration. 

CAN I TAKE ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS?

We do not recommend combining more than two Art & Design subjects at A level; those wishing to pursue full-time study in Art & Design should apply for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design instead.

The following subjects will complement this A level: English Literature, Media Studies and Physics (for students with an interest in architecture), Ancient History and History.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

All of your creative, practical and analytical work will be assessed by your tutors and moderated externally. At the end of each year the externally set practical assignment will demonstrate all that you have learnt and achieved. The course is assessed as 60% coursework (Year 1 & 2) and 40% Externally set assignment (Year 2).

WHAT ARE THE COSTS?

There are no charges to study on any of our courses. However you will be asked to contribute to the cost of resources and colour printing. Art packs to provide sufficient sketchbooks, canvases and MDF boards for the year will be available at cost price, we aim to keep this below £25.

Students should budget for trips to galleries and museums in order to gain maximum benefit from this course. These will take place once a term and we aim to keep costs below £15 for each trip.

WHAT IS THE DURATION?

This is a two year course.

WHAT IS THE UCAS POINTS TARIFF FOR THIS COURSE?

A Level

Grade	UCAS Points
A*	56
A	48
B	40
C	32
D	24
E	16

HOW DO I APPLY?

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