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GCSE Art is required to study A Level Art
Why study Art ?
Art pervades our daily lives through the media and surrounding environment. The study of Art and A Level increases our awareness and understanding of some of the principle forms of creation and communication.
The basic core skills are fundamental to a wide range of vocations. They can develop qualities and abilities that have very practical applications in areas such as architecture, fashion, graphics, illustration and textiles.
There are also the opportunities Art can provide for future recreation, giving different perspective and challenges away from the pre-occupations of the everyday business, industrial and domestic worlds.
Last but not least art gives an ability for students to express themselves in precise terms.
Skills obtained by studying Art?
Students explore a range and variety of media such as painting and drawing, sculpture, textiles and printmaking.
The ability to use with understanding formal elements such as line, tone and form is a key objective at AS and A2.
Composition, colour, surface texture, pattern and structure are all examined in response to a set of themes and design problems.
The development of a critical appreciation of the works of  artists, architects and designers is an important element of the course.
Where will a study of Art lead?
Animation
Architecture
Costume Design
Fashion
Film
Fine Art
Graphic Design
Illustration
Interior Design
Model Making
Sketchbook work is essential for all year groups.
Candidates eventually keep all of the work that they produce, so they are expected to purchase a sketchbook, plastic folder and provide their own pencils and at least one paintbrush. ( It is not possible to carry the variety of pencils the boys require.)
The purchase of acrylic paint is strongly recommended.
Sketchbooks and plastic folders can be supplied by the department at a discount. Please note, all monies collected by the department for sketchbooks is used to buy equipment for the students use.
Art and Design AS and A2 new specification
The AQA’s new specification for Art and Design has been designed to:
enable candidates to develop personal responses to ideas’ observations, experiences, environments and cultures
extend the existing flexibility to allow students and teachers to work from their strengths
provide an appropriate foundation for further study of Art and Design or related subjects in Higher Education
AS
At AS, candidates will be introduced to a variety of experiences employing a range of media, processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen area of study.
Unit 1
Development of a coursework portfolio exemplifying work carried out during the AS course.
Unit 2
An externally-set assignment with five exciting starting points. Candidates chose one.
A2
At A2, candidates are required to build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in the AS with greater depth of study.
Unit 3
A personal investigation in which candidates develop their work in response to an idea, issue, concept or theme of their choosing.
Unit 4
An externally-set assignment with eight exciting starting points. Candidates choose one.