Art and Design
Examination Board AQA.
What will I learn?

We currently offer Fine Art and Graphic Design as options. Some students choose to study Graphics as well as Fine Art course. All courses comprise of four units of work completed over two years. Students wishing to gain the AS qualification will be able to do this and will complete two units of work.
All the courses aim to develop the students’ individual art and design skills and personal responses to a variety of themes and projects. A wide variety of media will be experienced, including drawing and painting, sculpture and 3D design and ICT. Alongside this practical work, students will research contextual studies investigating the professional practice of artists, designers, architects etc.
What are the entry requirements?
Five A*-C in any subjects at GCSE including a good C or above. Coursework and research outside of school is an essential part of this course. Above all, you should enjoy being creative, imaginative and have a real desire to express yourself through art and design, as well as an interest and appreciation of the work of other artists and designers.
How will I be assessed?
AS Unit 1: This is a portfolio-based unit which should have at least one extended collection of work, or project based on an idea, concept or issue. After initial workshops students will be encouraged to follow their own personal line of investigation.
AS Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment. Separate questions will be set for each AS option. These consist of a choice of five questions to be used as starting points. Students pick one and complete research over numerous weeks, ready to produce five hours of unaided work in response to the theme.
Unit 3: This is a practical unit with a written study in which students are expected to develop a personal investigation based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished piece or pieces of work. The practical elements should be linked with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artists, designers or crafts people.
Unit 4: External Set Assignment. There will be a choice of several questions and after researching the selected theme, students will work on outcomes using 15 hours of time.
Future Opportunities
Not everyone who does this course will be seeking a career in Art and Design or Graphics. However, many students do pursue their interests through an Art and Design Foundation course, or a university degree. Career opportunities are very extensive in the fields of graphic design, architecture, fine art, films, games design, media industry, fashion design, teaching etc etc.
Is there anything I need to know?
This course aims to develop your enjoyment of Art and Design, it positively encourages you to express yourself creatively and proclaim your individuality!