Who should study Art and Design at A Level?

 

The subject is intended to meet the needs of the following types of candi­date

 

a)       those who will undertake further studies in Art and Design

 

b)       those whose studies or future careers make a background In Art and Design relevant.

 

c)       those who have an interest in, enjoyment and aptitude for the subject and who wish to gain a further AS/A Level.

 

The subject is a requirement for careers that include those connected with fine art, architecture, photography, film and video, journalism, fashion design, 3 dimensional studies, product design and multi-disciplinary courses.

Degrees can be obtained via art colleges, and universities. Such courses require a high degree of artistic skill, tile ability to work under pressure, and commitment. Candidates would require such abilities to succeed in tile wider world, for careers in art are often commercially based and therefore competitive.

 

What does the A Level Art and Design Course comprise?

 

Art and Design Is a subject which can offer a rich and diverse range of learning experiences and the main purpose of the syllabus is to provide a course of study which is broad, purposeful and relevant to the students' needs. The syllabus, therefore, is designed to cater for a wide spectrum of user require­ments, principally those of students, but also those of employers in commerce and industry. A high value is placed on those personal views and ideas of individuals which have been developed by informed critical judgement and although aesthetic considerations are of prime concern, an awareness of voca­tional applications should enhance the student's understanding of art, craft and design in contempo­rary society.

 

How is the A Level Art and Design Course taught?

 

Throughout the course a strong emphasis will be placed on art and design processes as well as prod­ucts. Visits to art galleries are an integral part of the course and students are encouraged to attend in their own time as often as possible. The keeping of sketchbooks and the personal development of critical and contextual understanding within their own work is essential to gain success. The self-motivation that is necessary to sustain this work cannot be overemphasised. In the same light, the development of the students’ observational drawing skills will underpin every aspect of the coursework and this basic skill should be a prerequisite for anyone thinking of taking the subject. The practical element of the course has an emphasis on good drawing ability and this cannot be stressed enough.  The foundation for all the necessary skills to facilitate success at AS and A level is the successful completion of a GCSE course in art and design.

It is a requirement of the syllabus that the student makes extensive use of critical and contextual studies.

A2 is also made up of two components