Art & Design (Graphic Communication)
Course type: A Level • Awarding/exam body: WJEC/EDUQAS
This exploratory and exciting course involves working with a broad range of media, including traditional techniques like printmaking and screen-printing, as well as contemporary media technologies ie. Adobe Creative Suite; Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator. In year one, students will explore ideas and develop skills through the creative process and learn from creative exploration. You will develop a mastery of practical skill, creative and visual literacy.The Graphic Communication A level fosters creative problem solving as well as independence, innovation, risk taking and engagement with historical and contemporary cultural, social and political issues. You will have the opportunity visually to explore, challenge and develop your own ideas and opinion on significant themes and issues. These skills are highly valued at Higher Education and by employers.
Component 01: Personal Investigation (60%)
Component 02: Externally Set Assignment (40%)
Assessment is at the end of the second year and comprises assessment of components 1 & 2 by internal marking and external moderation. The Externally Set Assignment is set after Christmas of the second year.
Students who want to progress into Art & Design typically progress through a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design at UAL institutions and Ravensbourne College of Design. Progression to university from this course is high. Career opportunities include graphic design, illustration, advertising and branding design, fashion, photography, product design, new media and web design.
Grade 4 in Art or Graphic Design OR Merit in BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Art
1 Visit to the ‘Pick Me Up’ contemporary Graphics Arts Festival at Somerset House.
2 Visit to the Abstract Impressionist show at the Royal Academy