Our Art, Craft & Design curriculum encourages students to explore their creativity and develop their artistic voice. This course offers a broad and flexible approach, allowing students to work across a range of disciplines including fine art, sculpture, textiles, and mixed media. Through experimentation, research, and critical reflection, students build a personal portfolio that showcases their skills, ideas, and creative journey.

What will you study?

Students follow the AQA A Level specification, which includes:

• Component 1: Personal investigation – an extended practical project based on a theme or style of your choice, supported by written work (1,000–3,000 words)
• Component 2: Externally set assignment – a practical project developed in response to a theme set by the exam board, culminating in a 15-hour practical exam
• Coursework: Makes up 60% of the final grade and is developed throughout Year 12 and 13
• Optional topics: Students can explore a variety of media and techniques, guided by their interests and artistic influences

Assessment

Assessment is 100% practical and based on the quality of the portfolio and final outcomes. Students receive ongoing verbal and written feedback, and final work is internally assessed and externally moderated.

Entry requirements

To study Art, Craft & Design, students should have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 9–4 (or equivalent)
• Ideally, a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Art & Design or a Merit in BTEC Art
• A strong interest in creative work and the ability to work independently

Enrichment opportunities

Students benefit from a range of enrichment activities, including:

• Gallery and museum visits
• Artist-led workshops
• Opportunities to exhibit work in school and local exhibitions
• Access to specialist studio spaces and materials

These experiences help students develop their artistic identity and gain inspiration from the wider creative world.

Progression and careers

Studying Art, Craft & Design at Sixth Form opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:

• Foundation courses in Art & Design, degrees in Fine Art, Illustration, Fashion, Graphic Design, and more
• Transferable skills in visual communication, problem-solving, and creative thinking

This subject is highly regarded by creative industries and supports progression into both higher education and employment in the arts.

“I chose Art because I like the independence of the subject and the freedom of choice within that. I enjoy generating ideas and then pushing them to their full potential; it gives me a space to step away from the academic side of things and be creative. I am particularly enjoying the independent research as it has allowed me to find types of art that I had never heard of but really interest me.”
— Tilly Martin