Fine Art

Course Leader:

Ms S Stirling – sstirling@sackvilleschool.org.uk

Exam board: Pearson Edexcel
Guidance: Grade 4 or above in GCSE art or textiles. A willingness to work independently in your free time and carry out individual research related to your chosen projects.
Course Start Date: 09/2024
Course length: 2 Years
Course description

Through intensive workshops in drawing, painting, printmaking and mixed media, students further develop their practical skills alongside knowledge of the formal elements in art. All students also have the opportunity to work in our well-equipped specialist studios.

In year 12, a thematic approach to each term encourages students to develop and extend their own ideas. This personal direction is expanded upon in year 13, with students undertaking in-depth research into their chosen area of study. By the end of the course, students will have built a substantial portfolio of mounted images.

The work of artists is used as a springboard for creativity; students are encouraged to visit local and national exhibitions, finding out about the role of the artist in society.

By the end of the course all students will have a substantial body of practical work, suitable for application to art foundation or degree courses. Students are guided through their applications for further study, whether in art & design or in other subjects.

Art enhances fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem solving skills, lateral thinking, complex analysis and critical thinking skills. These skills equip you for the everyday experiences required to be successful in all walks of life, giving you the “edge” over others.

Art reflects cultural values, beliefs and identity and helps to preserve the many different communities that make up the modern diverse society in which we live today.

Course units

Component 1: 60% of your marks are awarded for practical coursework and an extended essay, looking in depth at the work of artists and designers.

Component 2: 40% is gained in the second half of year 13, through an externally set assignment, which gives you the opportunity to demonstrate all your creative abilities.

Assessment

Ongoing assessment of your coursework through Y12 and into Y13 helps you to work to your strengths. Teachers give regular feedback, both verbally and in writing. In May of Y13, the coursework and externally set assignment are formally assessed by teachers and moderated by a visiting external examiner. Students exhibit their work for on site for moderation.

What can I do with this qualification?

A level art and design naturally leads to careers in the design industry including routes into architecture, art direction, art teaching, commercial artist, animator, interior designer, graphic designer, art gallery dealer or curator.

Before studying art and design at degree level at University, some students choose to do a foundation course in art and design for one year.

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