Head of Art and Design: Mr A Dunne
We explore materials, techniques and concepts, drawing inspiration from both contemporary and historical artists. Observational drawing is the basis from which all our projects develop; however, all students are encouraged to find an area of art in which they excel.
Students are challenged to create personal and exploratory projects which will develop their creative potential and lead to increasingly sophisticated and innovative pieces of work. As well as fine art media (drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture), students will be introduced to photography and mixed media techniques. The course structure at A Level will enable students to complete two comprehensive and in-depth projects before embarking on their examination project in the Spring Term of Year 13. The Fine Art approach provides students with a sound foundation of skills, alongside a high quality portfolio for further study in a wide range of art and design disciplines.
Course content
Examination board: AQA
Coursework Project One
– Practical workshops
– Independent development
Coursework Project Two
– Recording and experimenting
– Independent development
External Examination project
– Recording and experimenting
– Independent development
– Written personal study completed
(1000 – 3000 words)
– Final outcome in 15 hour examination
Sketchbooks, personal study and final pieces are marked together.
All work is exhibited in school for moderation by the examination board on site. The final examination grade is made up of 60% coursework and 40% examination work.
Co-curricular
We run portfolio classes after school for art college applicants, and have extra studio sessions for A Level students every week. Staff keep students informed of a range of art courses and opportunities at galleries, museums and art colleges across London.
We undertake study visits to fascinating locations such as Chatham’s Historic Dockyards, The Hunterian Museum and Hastings. We also visit the studios of artists practising within London to gain an insight into the life of a professional Artist.
University and beyond
The creative industries are now the second largest sector in London’s economy. A degree in Art and Design can lead to many interesting careers, including advertising, fashion, interior design, architecture, production design in film, television or theatre, art therapy and museum or art gallery work.
Most students who wish to study Art at university go on to complete the one-year Foundation Diploma in Art & Design before applying for specialist degree courses. The school has an excellent record of gaining places at the Royal Drawing School, London College of Communication, Camberwell College, City and Guilds, Kingston and Central St Martin’s.