Art

Overview

The A Level course offers you the chance to develop your drawing, painting and mixed media and photography skills. You will also be able to research areas of art and design that interest you and develop your own ideas into high quality finished work.

Course Outline

AS Level

Unit 1: Coursework Portfolio (50% of AS, 25% of total A Level) - a collection of work produced during the AS course.
Unit 2: Externally-set Assignment (50% of AS, 25% of total A Level) - a project of work derived from a starting point set by AQA culminating in a 5-hour test piece.

A2 Level
Unit 3: Personal Investigation (25% of A Level mark) - a personal investigation which is practical by nature, leading to a finished piece or pieces of work and supported by a written element that links the work of other artists to the project.
Unit 4: Externally-set Assignment (25% of A Level mark) - a project of work derived from a starting point set by AQA and culminating in a 15-hour test piece.

Assessment
Coursework (25%)
Personal Investigation (25%)
Externally-set Assignments (50%)
Examining Board - AQA.

Special Entry Requirements
Most students will have a GCSE pass (A-C) in Art, Graphics, Textiles or Design and Technology. It is essential that you are prepared to work hard and have a passion for this subject. A personal approach is encouraged throughout the course and it is expected that students will work in their own time to independently develop their projects.

Prohibited Options
Students may study two from the following: A Level Art, A Level Textiles, A Level Graphics. Students interested in all 3 options would be best suited to the BTEC Art and Design.

Career Opportunities
Most students wishing to go on to a career in Art and Design take an Art Foundation Course for one year at a local college. We are very successful in placing our students on Art Foundation courses.

Cost Implications
The College supplies most art materials that you will need. Students can buy sketchbooks, folders and brushes from the Department at reduced prices.

Other Information
You will have access to all staff in the Art department and be expected to develop your work both during formal lessons and in your own time. The department operates an open door policy, encouraging students to return during private study time and work independently in the studios. This course can be tailored to your needs and aspirations, providing a first rate grounding for progression to university.

This information is correct for September 2010 entry.