Art
The GCSE Art course allows you to work in a variety of areas such as drawing, painting, printing, collage, computer graphics, ceramics, sculpture and photography. You will observe the work of other artists, study the reasoning behind their work and gain ideas to inspire your own work.
Watch the video, read the Subject Information and if you still have questions, contact the faculty on the form below.
Students can only choose one of Art OR Photography.
What is GCSE Art about?
The GCSE Art course allows you to work in a variety of areas such as drawing, painting, printing, collage, computer graphics, ceramics, sculpture and photography. We have a very well equipped department. You will observe the work of other artists, study the reasoning behind their work and gain ideas to inspire your own work. There are also opportunities to visit galleries and exhibitions.
How is GCSE Art structured?
Throughout the course you will complete a Portfolio Unit. The portfolio should be selected from work undertaken during the course of study. It is recommended that the total portfolio submission will comprise of approximately 45 hours of work. Coursework starts in Year 9 from day one and prep work is very important. Students need to be able to build up sketchbooks and so will need basic art equipment of their own at home. The coursework makes up 60% of the GCSE grade. The exam or externally set assignment is a practical test similar to a coursework project with allocated time for students to prepare after the paper has been given to them. The exam is 10 hours over two days and students are expected to produce a final piece in response to the brief set on the exam paper. The exam is worth 40% of the overall grade.
What skills do I need to be successful?
Throughout the course, students will develop their visual literacy skills with an understanding of form, shape, space and colour with particular emphasis on art, craft and design.
How does GCSE Art help me prepare for my future?
In today’s culture we are surrounded by art, from architecture to sculpture, from fashion to photography, from painting to advertising. The artist is a valuable person in our modern world. Art and Design is a large employment area in the UK and is growing due to the increase in demand of digital arts. Art enhances fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem solving skills, lateral thinking, complex analysis and critical thinking skills. No matter what career you choose, those who can arrange, present and display material in a what that is aesthetically pleasing have an advantage.
Exam Board
The exam board that we use is AQA.
Useful websites:
www.tate.org.uk/ (the art and artists page is excellent)
www.britishmuseum.org/ (for things to draw)
www.studentartguide.com/articles/art-careers-list
www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/art-and-design/gcse/art-and-design-8201-8206