Full Time Art and Design AS/A2

Art and Design AS/A2
The work of artists and designers is everywhere in our world. Everything, from the buildings we live in to the mug we drink from, has been created by an artist or designer. This subject will appeal to students thinking of specialising in Art and Design, or who want to broaden their timetable and develop a personal interest.

You will express your ideas through drawing, painting, craft, design and printmaking. The emphasis is on practical work and the development of your own portfolio, but you will also gain an understanding of the role art has played in history as well as in society today through visits to galleries, working with practising artists and your own independent research.

What will I study?
You will have the opportunity to include photography and computer-aided Art and Design in your projects. You will also learn how to analyse the meanings and contexts of other artists' and designers' work.

AS: In the first year you will explore two and three-dimensional design in a range of media and develop your creative and technical abilities. You will build a broad portfolio of work and develop your observational skills, with sketchbook work being of great importance. You will also produce an externally assessed assignment.

A2: In the second year you will continue to develop a wide and varied portfolio, working more independently. You will also produce an externally assessed assignment, involving studio work, and a personal study involving research into an artist or art movement chosen by you.

How will I be assessed?
AS: 1 coursework projects, plus 5 hours of work under timed conditions.

A2: 2 coursework projects, a written personal study plus 15 hours of work under timed conditions.

What can I do next?
A level Art & Design is widely recognised for developing an enquiring and critical mind as well as developing creative and technical potential, and is a useful qualification for applying for further study in a wide range of areas. You may wish to use your portfolio to support applications for a pre-degree Foundation course or a higher course at degree level.