Length of Course

AS - 1 year 
A2 - 2 years

Examination Board

OCR

Assessment Levels and Component Levels

AS – Unit 1 – Coursework project 30% of AS (15% of A2)
        Unit 2 – Coursework project 30% of AS (15% of A2)
        Unit 3 – 5 hour exam (4 weeks preparation) 40% of AS (20% of A2)

Set by OCR, marked by centre/school, moderated by OCR

A2 – Unit 4 – Coursework project 15% of total A2

Unit 5 – Coursework project: Personal study; an illustrated written study of an aspect of art, design or craft Approx. 3000 words (15% of total A2)

                                    OR

Unit 6 – Coursework project: practical work with written support of Approx. 1000 words (15% of total A2)

Unit 7 – Controlled Test 15 hour exam (4 weeks preparation) 20% of total A2.

Set by OCR, marked by centre/school, moderated by OCR.

Entry Requirements

Students should have a GCSE grade C or above in an Art subject and it is recommended that student also have a GCSE grade C or above in English to help them cope with the Personal Study written element of the course.

AS –    Unit 1 – Research Projects 30% of AS (15% of A2)
           Unit 2 – Personal Investigation 30% of AS (15% of A2)
           Unit 3 – Controlled Test – 5 hours (4 weeks preparation) 40% of AS (20% of A2)

What You Will Learn

AS – you will learn a range of skills and techniques in the areas of drawing, painting, graphics, textiles and 3D.  Throughout the course you will develop your ability to work independently from a set theme.

A2 – you will have the opportunity to specialise in one area of Fine Art.

How You Will Learn

In the AS course there will be a number of demonstrations on different media and techniques, you will also be encouraged to do independent research on artists and designers by using the library and the internet.  There will also be a range of visits to museums and galleries, which will be used as starting points for practical projects as well as an opportunity to develop critical skills.

In the A2 course there will be a chance to for more independent learning based on students’ individual specialist areas and much of the teaching will be done on a tutorial basis as well as end of project group ‘critiques’.

Subject Expectations

There will be regular homework based on personal research and students will be expected to take part in a number of visits to galleries and exhibitions.

Career Opportunities

Many students will apply to Art College at the end of the A2 course and will be given guidance and help in this process.  Other students will use it to go with other ‘A’ levels for entry to University.

Allied Subjects

Many students study Design Technology, Performing Arts and English with their ‘A’ level Art and Design.

Key Skills

This subject offers opportunities for students to develop the nationally specified Key Skills.  The development of student Key Skills enrich their programme of study.  It will also allow them to gain acknowledged qualifications that is valued by employers and providers of higher education.  We may be able to offer communication but at present this has not been finalised.

Staff Contact

If you would like more details please contact Mr N Blackwell.