Course Guide

Students studying Art & Design will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of art media, processes and techniques. Traditional methods are studied as well as new media – the use of drawing for different purposes is examined, using a variety of methods and scales. Students will work in one or more areas of Art & Design such as drawing and painting, mixed media (collage), printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture, film and architecture. Relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design are investigated.

The course enables students to learn how to reflect critically and analyse visual culture. Students will learn to think and make decisions as artists, applying themselves creatively and with visual intelligence. Students will be encouraged to develop confidence and technical competence, whilst their imagination and creativity is stimulated.

Component 1: Personal Investigation

60% of A Level

Set and marked by the teacher and moderated by AQA in June.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment

40% of A Level

Set by AQA and marked by the teacher; moderated by AQA in June.

An exhibition of the students’ work will conclude the course.

Students have the opportunity to take part in a vast range of visits to London’s museums and galleries both as teacher led activities and as self-directed outings. Workshop opportunities at the major London galleries and art colleges are built into the course. Every year there is a residential art trip to a European city. Recent trips have included Venice, Rome, Barcelona and Berlin.

Students are encouraged to attend lifedrawing classes as an integral part of the course. Students regularly submit their work to National Art competitions. Recent success includes a British Film Institute award, work exhibited in the National Portrait Gallery and the Royal Academy. The Art & Design course also aims to help students to make decisions about University and further education choices in the creative industries. Excellent support is given in the preparation of portfolios and for Art School interviews.

Many of our Art & Design students go on to higher education and secure degree places at internationally renowned Art Schools, such as Central Saint Martins and Camberwell. Past students have gone on to study Architecture, Fine Art, Film Studies, Gaming and Graphic Design amongst other disciplines. As a department, we aim to fully meet the professional criteria required by the creative industries in the UK.