Art (Fine Art

Art (Fine Art) A-level

OCR (H601)

Why choose this course?

Are you aspiring, enthused and creative? Even fancied having your own studio space to work in to continue your passion during study periods? Then A-level Fine Art could be for you. This is a practical, making and creating course which uses a vast range of specialist materials and art techniques. It is 60% practical portfolio and 40% practical exam.

The course embraces the current and emerging technologies as well as the traditional routes of art, craft and design, such as drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture. It provides exciting opportunities for students to make personal journeys of discovery, learning why art and design matter and gaining experience of the working practices of individuals and organisations in the creative and cultural industries.

By providing freedom to experiment and take risks, students are encouraged to develop their own style of expression. Students have a dedicated Sixth Form Art Studio where each of our emerging artists has their very own studio space in which to work during the course.

Course content and assessment

Component 01 (H601/01)

Component 2 (H603/02) A coursework portfolio exploring Fine Art, based upon themes developed from a range of starting points. The Personal Investigation has two integrated elements: a portfolio of practical work and a related study, exploring context. Students will produce two elements: (i) a portfolio of practical work showing their personal response to a starting point, brief, scenario or stimulus, devised and provided by a combination of the students' interests guided by the department; (ii) a related study - an extended response (minimum of 1000 words).

The externally set assignment incorporates two major elements: supporting studies and practical work. After a period of preparation, students have 15 hours of controlled time to develop their ideas into a final realisation. The early release paper will be issued on 1 February and will provide learners with a number of themes, each with a range of written and visual starting points, briefs and stimuli.

Enrichment opportunities

Working with artists, visits to galleries and museums in London, Cambridge and further afield in Europe.

Progression routes

A-level Fine Art complements other courses such as Photography, Mathematics, Physics, English Literature, Psychology, Design Technology and History. Beyond A-level, students can apply their skills and knowledge to degree and diploma courses such as fine art, architecture, fashion, graphic design, marketing and advertising. Further career opportunities include specialised police professions, specialised insurance, curator, graphic designer, interior designer, fashion designer. Art & Design students also develop skills which are favoured by universities and employers such as: • Presentation skills and peer reviewing • Interpersonal skills and communication • Self-esteem and confidence building