A Level - Graphic Communication

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WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

This course is aimed at students who have a genuine interest in General Art and Design and who can demonstrate good problem-solving skills and creative ideas. This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of design principles and visual communication giving you a strong foundation of skills. You will also be given the freedom to explore and experiment with a wide range of traditional and digital techniques and processes. Graphics is suited to those looking to pursue a career in design, illustration, animation, games design, marketing and architecture.

Within the subject of Graphic Design, you are encouraged to explore a range of disciplines such as illustration, typography, advertising, packaging, branding, editorial design, book covers, animation and web design. You will learn and develop a variety of techniques within drawing, illustration, typography, laser cutting, print making, collage, textiles and photography.

The graphics studio is well-equipped with a range of materials and equipment; there is a computer for each student including standard software with the latest Adobe Creative Suite, which you will be taught how to use during the course.  

In year one students will study the relationship between ideas and graphic design practice. Contextual research is an important part of the course. Students will gain skills in both freehand techniques and digital technologies. The emphasis of coursework is on individual projects that promote personal interpretation and the development of individual styles.

In year two in addition to practical work, 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. Finally, there will be an externally set practical assignment.

The course has been designed to ensure that not only will your practical artistic skills and abilities are 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 sketchbook and digital portfolio. You will be encouraged to experiment broadly and generate lots of ideas for each component.

WHAT DO I NEED TO JOIN THE COURSE?

6 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, this is very much a Creative Art based course so ideally the student will have Grade 4 or above in GCSE Art and/or Graphics if studied. However if these GCSEs have not been taken then a selection of artwork and sketchbooks, which demonstrate acceptable levels of skill, such as drawing, painting, and photography will be requested for consideration but the student must have a genuine interest in Art & Design.

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.

We find that some subjects specifically complement the A Level Graphics Course such as, Games Design, Photography, Art and textiles. 

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.

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.

Students are encouraged to buy sketchbooks and mountboards for each year, these will be available at cost price.

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 the cost 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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