Art & Design

Create boldly. See differently.

A-Level Art & Design gives students the freedom to develop their creativity while building highly valued analytical, problem-solving and reflective skills.

You'll explore traditional and digital techniques, develop your visual literacy, and learn how artists communicate ideas through materials, processes and concepts. Art is both expressive and academic – preparing you for a huge range of creative and professional pathways.

What you will study

Component 1: Personal Investigation

• Mini-project exploring techniques and materials
• Written investigation (1000+ words)
• Major practical project with research, experimentation, analysis and final outcomes

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment

• Theme released in February
• Artistic/context research
• Material and media experimentation
• Final 15-hour timed piece

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Next steps - where might it lead?

Studying Art can lead to degrees such as:

• Fine Art
• History of Art 
• Graphic Design
• Fashion
• Architecture
• Marketing and Advertising
• Photography
• Curation

What experience and skills will you gain?

You'll gain:

• Strong creative problem-solving and the ability to experiment, refine and take ideas through to a final outcome
• Analytical and critical thinking skills through researching artists, evaluating processes and forming interpretations
• Technical confidence in both traditional media (painting, printmaking, sculpture) and digital platforms (drawing tablets, moving image, editing)
• Organisation, independence and decision-making skills essential for higher education and creative careers
• Transferable skills such as visual communication, planning and reflective practice

Future careers - where might this take you?

Graduates can pursue careers such as:

• Graphic Design (£21,000-£42,000)
• Animation and Motion Design (£20,000-£45,000)
• Illustrator (£32,000-£49,000)
• Fashion and Textile Design (£21,000-£70,000)
• Curation and Museums (£23,000-£57,000)
• Art Therapist (£30,000-£43,000)