Overview
We run a varied and engaging course that allows you to develop your creative interests. Candidates will work in at least two of the following areas of Art and Design. Overlapping areas and combinations are encouraged:
Areas of study
- Fine art
- Graphic communication
- Textile design
- Three-dimensional design
- Photography, including lens-based and light-based media
You will have the opportunity to participate in regular gallery visits and skills workshops across a variety of media. Classrooms are specialist spaces, designed to support your creative development.
Entry requirements
5 in Art & Design (individual cases considered on merit)
Course content
The A level component 1 is based on a theme you will choose to develop a portfolio of work. It is a highly individual and creative project. It includes a written element (1000-3000 words) that your Art tutor will guide you through. The component 2 is an externally set project with a timed element of 15 hours incorporated into it and is a great challenge to your creative and artistic abilities.
Year 12
Term 1 – choose theme, media workshops
Term 2 – outcome 2 development, gallery visit
Term 3 – review and outcome 2 development
Term 4 – outcome 3
Term 5 – outcome 4 exhibition
Term 6 – project review and development
Year 13
Term 1 – outcome 5, start essay, visit
Term 2 – outcome 6
Term 3 – exam, project review
Terms 4 & 5 – exam, exhibition, all component 1
Trips, visits and extra-curricular
As part of our course, students will visit London to see the Tate Britain and Tate Modern. This includes a Thames trip, passing landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and the MI5 building.
Throughout the year, additional opportunities may include landscape photography sessions in the Peaks, working with professional artists, and participating in events at King Ecgbert School such as KEStival.
An end-of-year visit is also arranged, which varies annually. Previous visits have included the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Alexander McQueen exhibition, and Hull City of Culture.
Assessment
For your A Level Art course, you will produce two projects.
Portfolio Project
You will create a portfolio project based on a theme of your choice.
Externally Set Project
The second project is externally set by AQA and offers a choice of six to seven starting points. You will be assessed on how well you develop your ideas towards a final outcome or outcomes.
Results
Students studying Art A Level with us often achieve excellent results. Last year, 65% of our students achieved grades A* to B, making it one of their most successful subjects.
Exam board
AQA