A Level Art and Design - Fine Art

Course summary

Why this course? Component 1: Personal Investigation (60% of A Level) Incorporates three major elements: supporting studies, practical work, and a personal study: • This component allows students opportunities to generate and develop ideas, research primary and contextual sources, record practical and written observations, experiment with media and processes, and refine ideas towards producing personal resolved outcome(s). Students will have the opportunity to explore a theme of their choice and will creating a portfolio of work based on this. • The personal study will be evidenced through critical written communication showing contextual research and understanding in a minimum 1000 words of continuous prose, which may contain integrated images. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40% of A Level) Incorporates two major elements: preparatory studies and the 15–hour period of sustained focus. • The externally set assignment is released on 1 February and contains a theme and suggested starting points, students will use this to create preparatory studies to create a portfolio of practical work • During the 15–hour period of sustained focus under examination conditions, students will produce final outcome(s) extending from their preparatory studies in response to the externally set assignment. Student profile This course is not just for those with highly developed artistic skills. The course will suit students who are creative with ideas, are able to take artistic risks with materials, techniques, processes and concepts. Students will enjoy working with a wide range of media. Students will need to be hardworking, motivated, resilient and able to manage their time both in and out of the classroom. Progression • Further education courses such as the BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (QCF) • Higher education courses such as BTEC Higher National Diplomas in art or design subjects, or direct to a BA Honours degree with an art and design focus • Apprenticeships or other training in a photography or design related sector • Employment in a related sector.