Fine art is work that is produced as an outcome of students’ personal experiences, observations and ideas and one of the strengths of this art course is that it is designed to encourage students to develop personal and meaningful responses to themes.
During the 2 year course, students use A3 art sketchbooks to record and develop their ideas; experiment with a wide range of different materials, techniques and processes; and research the work of artists. Students also produce personal responses and have the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials including drawing materials, oil paint, sculpture, photography, and printmaking. These personal responses are displayed in an exhibition at the end of the course.
There are many opportunities during the Art GCSE course to visit galleries, take part in practical workshops and to have art work exhibited. For example, for the last 2 years several students have been selected to have their art work displayed in the Royal academy of Arts Young Artists’ Summer Show.
Homework needs to be completed each week and students are able to come to an after school Art Club to use the art studio and resources if they wish to do so.
Course Outline
Between September of Year 10 to January in Year 11, students will be exploring set themes for the coursework component. These currently include a large-scale self-portrait, a sculpture and a final piece developed from an exam theme. From January in Year 11 until May, students will be completing the exam component, which involves sketchbook work and a final personal response.
The coursework component is worth 60% of the GCSE mark
The exam component is worth 40% of the mark
POST 16 PROGRESSION
With a GCSE in Art and Design you can go on to do BTEC, AS and A-level courses in Art and Design, Photography and many other creative subject areas.
CAREER OPTIONS
Many employers and colleges like students who have studied a creative subject as it enables students to be better at working independently, problem solving and thinking creatively.
Some careers are more directly linked with GCSE art and these include: Photography, architecture, jewellery design, film, make-up artist, game design, web design, costume/set design, fashion design, interior design, animation, advertising and many other design-based careers.