Vacancies Admissions
Header Image 1

Art and Design

 "Making art is about losing yourself in something and not always knowing what it is or where it's going to take you. It’s about discovery."  

Phyllida Barlow  

Course Summary

A-Level Art & Design is an exciting and challenging course that develops creative thinking, technical skills, and personal expression. Students explore a range of techniques, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, digital media, and mixed media, while studying influential artists and designers.

In Year 12 students experiment with different materials and processes, developing their skills and confidence. They complete a series of creative projects, refining their personal approach and critical thinking.  In Year 13 students undertake a Personal Investigation, a self-directed project with a written component allowing them to explore a theme in depth. The course concludes with an externally set assignment, where students respond to a given brief, culminating in a final piece completed under exam conditions.

This course prepares students for further study in creative fields and develops transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and independent thinking, opening doors to a wide range of careers in the creative industries and beyond.

 

Facilities

We have two large fully equipped specialist Art rooms, with a kiln, specialist screen and etching press printmaking spaces. We are supported within the Art and Technology faculty for 3D work including a hearth for metal work and a laser cutter.

 

Assessment method

Component 01: Personal investigation - 60%

  • A practical portfolio with supporting contextual research in response to a set theme. The portfolio may be presented in a format appropriate to the specialism and area of study chosen.

  • A related study using words and illustrations demonstrating the context in which their portfolio exists, exploring the relevant genre, subject matter, movement or historical framework of the selected theme.

Component 02: Externally set task - 40%

Students can choose a starting point from any of the seven given themes for which they will generate an appropriate personal response for assessment. They will carry out preparatory work to research, plan and develop their ideas, before engaging in 15 hours of supervised time to complete their work.

 

Enrichment and Extra-Curricular

Students are expected to demonstrate an interest in Art and Design outside of school, actively visiting galleries and exploring the work of other artists. Students have every opportunity to work in the Department outside of lessons in numerous extra-curricular activities.

 

Exam Board

OCR H601 - Fine Art 

Course Specificaiton