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WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?

The Art Department at Little Heath School runs an exciting and challenging A level course.

You will be actively encouraged to explore your creative potential in this varied and interesting subject. You will discover and learn challenging new techniques, building on what you have learned before, thus developing your artistic ability further. You will also discover a range of new artists to inspire your work, whilst developing your research and analytical skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You will need good basic drawing skills, and you should be willing to experiment with new materials. You should also have a minimum GCSE Grade 4 in Art and Design.

You must enjoy creating art; you should be enthusiastic and well motivated, and have a keen interest in artists and designers. If you do not have a GCSE in Art and Design, you may still be considered for the subject, but you will be required to present some recent work to illustrate your practical skills and suitability to the course.

At Little Heath School we offer a two-year A level Art and Design course that has been developed to encourage students to explore the many varied and exciting opportunities that the subject has to offer.

SYLLABUS

YEAR 12

Unit 1: Extended coursework unit, with written element

Practical unit in which students are expected to develop a personal investigation based on an idea, issue, concept or theme.

Practical work must be supported by an essay of 2000 words, which researches the art historical aspect of their project.

YEAR 13

Unit 2: Final externally set assignment

Questions set by examination board to be used as starting points.

Students choose one topic to explore in a practical project.

Final piece is completed in a 15 hour examination.

In Year 12 students begin the course with a foundation period in which they will be introduced to a series of workshops that cover a wide range of processes and techniques helping them to build confidence and bridge the gap between GCSE and A level Art. Later in the year students will be encouraged to consider their own strengths and will then begin a practical investigation (Unit One) into the genre of art that particularly appeals to them. This is an extended unit of work which will enable students to thoroughly develop both their ideas and artistic abilities, as well as helping them to become the very best young artists and designers they can be.

Once the coursework has been completed in Year 13 the students will begin an externally set exam project, much like they do at GCSE level.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED AND EXAMINED?

Art is a linear A level. All work is assessed at the end of two years. All other additional work will be created in class or outside of lessons and will be marked in line with AQA guidelines.

FUTURE COURSES AND POSSIBLE CAREERS

Opportunities for employment in the creative industry are many and varied. Most students who wish to pursue an art related career complete an art foundation course following their A level studies. This is generally followed by a degree course in a more specialised area, for example, interior design, product design, film making, fashion and textiles, photography or graphic design. Some universities also offer academic art subjects such as History of Art and conservation.

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