Art

Examining Body: OCR 

Entry Criteria: Grade 5 in GCSE Art and Design

This A Level course gives students the opportunity to develop personal strengths, as well as to learn new techniques. 

The central core of the work involves drawing and painting in a variety of media, as well as providing the possibility of working in digital media, sculpture, printmaking, installation, graphics or photography.

Examination candidates are assessed in a final practical exam at the end of the two year course.  The first year of the course is designed to encourage investigation and exploration with a wide range of materials and techniques. In their second year, students complete a related study and a final exam. A related/contextual study is an important element of the second year; past students have produced exciting work on a wide range of themes. 

Students who choose to study Art will have a passion for the subject and be prepared to dedicate a lot of time outside of class to work on their practical assignments.  They may also be considering studying the subject at a higher level.  The ability to record information through drawing is an essential requirement. 

Studying Art helps students to develop not only their creative skills but also their critical thinking skills which are valuable in the workplace and can be applied to other GCE subjects.  There are many careers open to people with qualifications in Art, including: graphic design; architect; product designer; set designer; photographer; illustrator; and teacher. The internet has created an explosion of opportunity for digital designers and multimedia artists.

Good subjects to consider taking with Art are Drama, Media Studies, or English Literature. However, creative students from other disciplines will find the subject equally useful and enjoyable.