Art and Design

AQA

Grade 5 in GCSE Art

Both units are internally assessed and grades are verified by a moderator.
Component 1, Personal investigation: 60%
Component 2, Externally set task: 40%

This is an exciting course for students who want to develop a breadth of Art skills.
Students should consider this course if they want to widen their expertise to cover:
Graphics, Ceramics, Jewellery, Fashion & Textiles, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Sculpture.

The 2 year AQA course covers a range of Art and Design disciplines that you will experience before deciding a final route. Depending on the development of your skills you will select from:

• Art, craft and design
• Fine art
• Graphic communication
• Textile design
• Three-dimensional design
• Photography

Component 1: Personal investigation

The course begins with a theme that encourages exploration of techniques and materials
including painting, drawing, textiles, sculpture, jewellery, book binding, ceramics, print,
photography, digital manipulation and wire work. After experimenting with the materials and exploring concepts, students are required to conduct a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. Students select the focus of this investigation which forms the basis of the coursework.

Component 2: Externally set assignment

This exam unit begins with a choice of starting points set by the exam board and after research concludes in a 15 hour exam to complete the project. Students are to select the materials, artists and create a range of samples and designs to inform the outcome. All preparation work is handed in at the start of the supervised exam time.

Students are able to develop a full portfolio of work that can be used for University interviews. Many of our students go on to study Art further in London, Cumbria, Newcastle, Dundee, Leeds, Manchester and Glasgow to name a few. Courses include Fine Art, Fashion, Fashion Communication, Illustration, Sculpture, Graphic Design, Knitwear and Art Craft and Design.

The design process is the key to success on this course. Students will be taught how to;

• Apply knowledge and understanding of other artists’ practice.
• Apply skills, techniques and understanding.
• Conduct analysis, synthesis and evaluation

We encourage our students to develop research skills and practical ability, this is often done in conjunction with workshops and gallery visits. Recent trips include visits to Newcastle, Glasgow, Manchester, London and New York Art galleries.