A Level Art is a creative and analytical course that encourages students to develop their artistic skills, explore a range of materials and techniques, and investigate the work of artists.
Through experimentation, research and personal projects, students build a portfolio that reflects their ideas, creativity and individual artistic journey.
'I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn't say any other way.’
Georgia O'Keeffe
Component 1
Personal Investigation
60% of final grade
Personal Investigation comprises two elements - a portfolio of practical work derived from workshops, skill builders, personal exploration of materials and extended practical outcomes and a related written study of between 1000 and 3000 words exploring the context of the practical work produced
Component 2
Externally set task
40% of final grade
A response to seven exam titles issued by the examining body in February of Year 13. Students select one exam title and research a personal response to the theme. Work is concluded with 15 hours of supervised time – practical work undertaken in exam conditions.
Year 12 - Units of study
These include extensive exploration of materials and techniques through workshop based activities alongside a visual studies module which examines historic context and relevant artistic movements. Independent study of four hours per week is encouraged throughout the course.
ASSESSMENT
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NEA portfolio and written study
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Externally set task including 15 hours of supervised time
SUBJECT EXPERTS​
Mrs Higley, Subject Lead
Mrs Higley has experience of teaching a broad range of practical art techniques including painting, printmaking, ceramics and textiles. After completing a BA Fine Art at Exeter School of Art where she specialised in installation textiles and painting, she completed a furnishing textiles apprenticeship before entering the teaching profession in 2004.
Ms Reynolds has a degree in textile design with history of art from the University of Leeds.
Before becoming a teacher, she had a successful career in fashion and textile design working with internationally renowned designers.
Ms Williams has a degree in textile design from Nottingham Trent University.
Mr Hart studied design for graphic communication and typography at the University of Reading before embarking on a letter carving apprenticeship in Cumbria.
He has been a practising professional artist working as a stone, wood and glass engraver in his local studio since 2012.
Study visits and enrichment opportunities
Study trips to museums and galleries.
Visual research trips to draw and photograph relevant material.
Residential trip to Berlin – combined Art and History trip.
Visiting art and craft practitioners delivering specialised workshops.
Dedicated studio space for A Level students
ART CAN LEAD TO A CAREER IN:
Film, Photography and Animation
Fashion, costume and printed textile design
Heritage and Museum work
Architecture
Heritage and Museum work
Advertising and digital media
Traditional and modern craftmanship
Education
Illustration and graphic design
Interior design