| Overview | At present the ‘endorsement’ (specialism) followed is ‘Fine Art’ which reflects the experimental and expressive nature of the work of the department and allows for work in any medium. However the variety of methods and concepts covered ensures that students are equally well prepared for a range of courses beyond A level. The four assessment objectives used to mark work are related to the student’s ability to develop ideas (informed by research), experiment (reviewing and refining as work develops), record ideas, and present a personal response, and are equally weighted. |
| Examination board | The Sixth Form Art and Design course at Queen Elizabeth’s follows the AQA specification. Full details of the specification and additional support materials can be accessed here. |
Unit 1 - Portfolio Examination to be taken in April of Year 12 | This unit consists of a collection of practical coursework in any medium. Some of this work may comprise a variety of ‘stand alone’ exercises, however at least one ‘project’ should be included, showing a journey of research, exploration and development leading to a final outcome. 25% of A level, 50% of AS. Marked internally and externally moderated. |
Unit 2 - Externally set assignment Examination to be taken in April of Year 12 | This unit consists of practical work in any medium related to a theme chosen from five given by the exam board. The work must be completed between the beginning of February and mid-May. This includes five hours of supervised time, which may take place at any point during the development stage. The work should show a journey of research, exploration and development leading to a final outcome. 25% of A level, 50% of AS. Marked internally and externally moderated. |
Unit 3 - Personal Investigation Examination to be taken in April of Year 13 | This unit consists of practical work in any medium, focusing on the development of a personal theme. The work should show a journey of research, exploration and development leading to a final outcome. The work should also be supported by 1000-3000 words of critical analysis. This unit should be considered as a major project, underpinned by the foundation given at AS level. Independent gallery visits will be necessary to support both practical and written work. 25% of A level. Marked internally and externally moderated. |
Unit 4 - Externally set assignment Examination to be taken in April of Year 13 | This unit consists of practical work in any medium related to a theme chosen from eight given by the exam board. The preparatory work must be completed between February !st and mid-May. Final work must be completed within 15 hours of supervised time. The work should show a journey of research, exploration and development leading to a final outcome. 25% of A level. Marked internally and externally moderated. |
| Course support & enrichment at QE | Students are given substantial support through both general guidelines and project structures, and individual feedback and tutorials. Projects are carefully designed to stretch the students appreciation and understanding of aesthetic, technical and conceptual aspects of their work. The work is both demanding and exciting, giving opportunity for considerable experimentation, personal development and expression. Students benefit from the expertise of students that visit the school to speak about their experiences of art college. Through the Royal Academy’s ‘AtRAct’ programme, some students take part in further workshops, and an online exhibition. A field course (e.g. to Paris) is usually organised for the summer term of the AS course. Life Drawing classes are also organised as appropriate. Students are encouraged to run their own art clubs, e.g. architecture club. |
| Progression from A-level Art & Design | Students find this subject an interesting and creative compliment to other subjects, providing breadth. Some however use it as a stepping stone to a Foundation Course in Art and Design, or as a direct route to a degree course in such subjects as Fine Art, Graphic Design, 3D Design, Fashion and Textiles, Photography, Film, Animation or Architecture. |
Recommended wider study This is particularly relevant for those considering further study beyond A-level | In Art and Design it is important that students: - Make use of the wide variety of images and information available in the reference books referred to in relation to projects and individual work (available in the department library and on the curriculum network).
- Use the Internet to research artist’s work and get to know gallery websites. Watch appropriate art and culture programmes on TV.
- Make independent visits to galleries and museums, particularly the large number of private and public galleries on our doorstep in London.
- It can be particularly useful if students can develop a personal workbook / sketchbook in which to record more personal ideas beyond the immediate requirements of the course.
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