Art and Design (Photography)

Course summary

The photography option is perfect for you if you love taking photographs, and enjoy exploring and experimenting with different image manipulation techniques. You will begin year 12 with a series of introductory skills-based workshops which includes exploring camera techniques and digital image manipulation skills, coupled with in-depth historical and contextual studies analysis. You will work on Google Slides using Pixlr E, Photopea, Photoshop and other relevant apps, and will be encouraged to pursue independent lines of investigation linked to your creative workshops. The skills-based workshops and sessions for both options last until March of year 12 and you will then begin your Component 1 Personal Investigation which continues into year 13. In this sustained personal project, you can choose your own theme for your project, and complete work, culminating in a final outcome(s) in appropriate media. YEAR 13 COURSE CONTENT Component 1: Personal Investigation - You are required to conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently and should be an in-depth study that demonstrates your ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment - Following receipt of the paper in February, you will consider the starting points/themes and select one. Preparatory work should be presented in any suitable format, such as mounted sheets, sketchbooks, slides, workbooks, journals, models and maquettes. Following the preparatory period, you must complete 15 hours of unaided, supervised time. In the 15 hours, you must produce a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes, informed by your preparatory work. This is a very successful A Level course, and a large proportion of our students go on to study an art or photography-based course at university or college.