ART

Art in Years 10 and 11 is taught according to the AQA examination board GCSE syllabus in Art and Design. The course is fine-art based and the main areas of study are drawing, painting sculpture, animation, digital and printmaking.

Projects are set throughout the two years, starting with short introductory workshops and progressing to increasingly independent work in a variety of media. This will include work from observation and imagination, as well as resolving graphic design problems. Analysis of the work of other artists is a part of all practical projects. The range of media used will include paint (tempera, watercolour and acrylic), pencil, ink, charcoal and oil pastel. Digital manipulation of images is a crucial area in the course. As the course progresses, the projects will develop a personal direction in their choice of subject matter and use of materials.

At the end of the course, 60% of the result is based on coursework portfolio, including at least one complete project. The remaining 40% is based on an externally set assignment which is developed over 8 or 9 weeks, before the completing the final outcome over 10 hours of supervised time. This piece of work is produced at the end of the course. Students will work with increasing independence as the course progresses and the examination is usually completed using skills that the student has become confident in using.

All students will be expected to keep a sketch book. In this they will do their weekly homework and also produce any other designs which supplement their coursework and display their individual ideas.

The Art room is open to GCSE students every lunchtime and Tuesdays after school, in order to maximise opportunities for student contact time and completion of coursework with support available. The Art room is being refitted for 2023/24 to include enhanced equipment including PC terminals, photographic equipment,