Art & Design

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE A LEVEL ART & DESIGN?

Do you wish to acquire a deeper understanding of Art and Design and engage in the work of Historical and Contemporary Artists? Are you prepared to work independently with a high degree of personal response? Do you want to develop your creative talent and produce original, unique and personal work? If the answer to these questions is ‘yes’, then A Level Art and Design at St Edward’s College Sixth Form is for you!

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

The A Level specification is a linear course spread across two years and involves two components, one of which is an externally set assignment completed towards the latter part of Year 13. In Year 12, students will be expected to build up a portfolio of work which develops their skills in drawing, painting, 3D, print, digital and mixed media. Students will then identify areas of interest to pursue for their personal investigation. They will realise their intentions in Year 13 and support their practical work with an informed and analytical written response of between 1000 and 3000 words.

HOW WILL I LEARN?

With the direction of committed and experienced staff, you will visit both local and national galleries in order to gather visual and written information in your resource book. Your teachers will keep you focused with advice and personal monitoring and they will give you support so that you will learn in a vibrant and caring environment.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

You will be assessed by your teachers and moderated externally. There will be regular assessment throughout the course and both units of work will be marked and standardised at the end of the course in Year 13. The personal investigation, ie your portfolio of work, is worth 60% of your overall mark with the remaining 40% accrued through your externally set task.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

You will develop your practical skills and creative responses with both traditional and new media, in a challenging, rewarding and enjoyable way. Analysis, problem-solving and independent research are all qualities required for any person considering higher education and Art and Design promotes all three.

WHAT CAN A QUALIFICATION IN ART & DESIGN LEAD TO?

Whilst being primarily Fine Art, a qualification in this field complements many other subjects. As a higher qualification it can lead you into Architecture, Photography, Product Design, Stage Lighting, Set Design, Fashion, Interior and Graphic Design.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 in GCSE Art & Design.