A Level Art & Design

Realated Pages: Key Stage 3 Art & Design  |  Art - IGCSE Art & Design  |  Pre-IB Art 

Also available to download in PDF format:  A Level Art Student Sketchbook Checklist

A Level Art and Design is a creative and demanding course. Involving both practical work and critical appreciation, the A level is one that is well respected by universities in the UK and abroad.

At Wellington College, we have a dynamic and individual-centred approach to Art A level – one that emphasises flexibility and creativity. Although technique is a vital element of the course, we are above all interested in allowing you to develop your own artistic style and opinions – your own voice.

The A level Art and Design syllabus considers expression and communication. Students learn about visual perception and aesthetic experience, and the ways in which art and design creates a language of its own.

Most of the work for this syllabus is practical or studio based, so that students can develop their abilities of observation and analysis of the visual world, sensitivity, skill, personal expression and imagination. They also learn how to relate their skills to an enhanced knowledge of their own cultures, past and present, as well as an appreciation of practical design problems.

What does the course consist of?

The AS

1. Unit 1 is a 'Coursework Portfolio', which consists of practical-based work and a critical study based on artists or themes in art
2. Unit 2 is a practically based timed exam

The A2

1. Unit 3 combines practical work with a critical study based on artists or themes in art
2. Unit 4 is a practically based timed exam

Whom does the subject suit?

Students already aiming to apply to Art schools or work as an artist, are likely already to be interested in, and suited to, Art A level. They will find that the course offers plenty of opportunity to hone their skills and develop as an artist.

The course is not, however, solely suitable for aspiring career artists; it could make an excellent addition to anA level programme, whatever a student’s ambitions may be. Art may broaden the scope of an otherwise primarily essay-based or scientific selection of subjects.

Your Art (I)GCSE grade is probably the best indication of your ability to pursue the A level – but we may also take students into the AS course on the strength of their ability to demonstrate interest in art & design and motivation to develop their skills.

How is Art taught at Wellington College ?

The Art department aims to provide a flexible and creative environment for making art, both in terms of the atmosphere of the department and the facilities offered.

By providing students with access to facilities and teaching across a broad range of media and artistic disciplines, students determine the directions they will take, rather than prescribing a set medium or discipline.

Regular observational classes are provided to help students develop work from direct experience. The department organizes visits to museums andgalleries in Beijing to allow students to experience at first hand the thriving arts scene there as well as see original works by great artists.

Perhaps the most significant quality of the Art A Level course is the high degree of freedom students are afforded in terms of their choice of themes and the ways in which they can develop their art. Class sizes in Upper and Lower 6th Form are always small, so it is easy to devise and monitor individual programmes of study. Our students appreciate this approach to support the best opportunity for exam success.

What might the subject lead onto?

Students will have opportunities to go on to foundation courses at top UK Art schools, including Central St Martins, Chelsea and Wimbledon, or go on to study at other leading Art institutions worldwide. We also provide expert advice in portfolio preparation for applications to Art schools as well as guidance for other visual communications degree courses.