Fine Art A Level Graphic Communication A Level Media Studies A Level Photography A Level Textiles A Level Digital Media CAMTEC Level 3
visual arts
Film Studies A Level
Film Studies A Level When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020. For how long will I study? For two years. What is this course about? This course will give students an opportunity to combine creative work with an academic exploration of a broad range of film – from Contemporary American Film to Asian New Wave. You will analyse and compare films using established critical approaches and evaluate the significance of Film Movements and Film Theories. You will apply your knowledge and understanding of film form to the production of your own Short Film or Screenplay. You will develop the skills necessary for preparation for a wide range of degree subjects and career choices. What topics will I study? Coursework: You will learn how to write screenplays and how to make films, including sound recording and mixing, camera work and editing. You will have the option of
presenting a final film production or screenplay with an evaluation of your work in comparison with specific professional film productions. The coursework is worth 30% of the total mark. Exams: The remainder of the course will be assessed by two exams which will test your knowledge of topics including: • Classic and New Hollywood • Contemporary American • Mainstream Film and American Independent Film • British Film since 1995 • European and World cinema • Documentary • Silent Film • Experimental Cinema How will my work be assessed? Coursework units are internally marked, with reference to the set assessment objectives, and externally moderated. Exams are externally marked. What skills and interests do I need beforehand to be a successful applicant for this course? It is essential that you have a love of film and cinema: We study film, not television or print.
You need to be prepared to study a wide range of films. You do not need to have existing film-making skills or knowledge of film: Be prepared to be challenged, you will see and think about film in a different way. What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? You will need to develop the ability to be enquiring and analytical when studying film and to develop the skills to examine personal and critical responses to texts. Are there any specific entry requirements? You need to have a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*-C including a grade 4 in English Language. What do students say about this course? “I like the fact that I have been given the opportunity to work to my own interests and strengths.” “We are frequently given individual advice on our work. We are also given the chance to express and develop our own viewpoints.” “Discussions are lively!” “It’s given me the chance to broaden and develop my love of film.” What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course.
Group work, individual tutorials, research tasks, discussions, group and individual presentations. For some of the course there are individual, practical, ILT or research based tasks. Full screenings and film extracts are used to illustrate all aspects of the course. 1:1 support is available to all students. What have I got to do in order to do well? Work will be assessed by your teacher throughout the year. Act on the written and verbal feedback given to help you improve. Watch and learn by exploring the work of a range of filmmakers. Keep to all deadlines for written work and manage time efficiently for practical tasks. Be prepared and equipped for all lessons. Learn thoroughly all exam topics. Is there a similar qualification to this one? If so how do I choose between them? Of the three Media qualifications we offer: A Level Film Studies offers the opportunity to explore a range
of film styles, understand critical debates in Film and complete a relevant practical task. There is a mix of exams and coursework. A Level Media Studies enables you to explore and understand how the Media work and complete a relevant practical task. There is a mix of exams and coursework. The CAMTEC in Digital Media enables you to understand film making and produce several different types of film, working on pre-production, filming and postproduction techniques. Most assessment is through coursework, although there is one examined unit. There are different entry requirements. Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? This is a subject that complements a diverse range of other subjects, or can broaden an interest in Media and the Arts. A qualification in Film Studies can demonstrate knowledge of film as a creative and technical product. It also demonstrates the ability to analyse and evaluate cultural products from specific social, historical and political contexts. What do people do with A Level Film Studies? Many students go on to study film, media or cultural studies or to study film as part of a combined degree at university. Career opportunities exist in the film
industry, teaching, and any jobs that require thoughtful, adaptable and skilled people. Film Studies A Level can also accompany many other subjects and can form part of an application to a huge range of university courses and career paths.
Fine Art A Level When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020. For how long will I study? For two years. What is this course about? A Level Fine Art offers opportunities to use your creativity to express yourself and record the world in which you live. You will develop your understanding of creative processes, your ability to observe and think, to solve problems and communicate in a visual, verbal, and written way. It will enable you to work independently and to make your own discoveries by exploring ideas, other artists’ work and different materials and techniques.
• Installation • Printmaking • Moving image (animation, film and video)
Drawing and other materials processes. Drawing in fine art forms an essential part of the development process from initial idea to finished work; from rough sketches, to diagrams setting out compositions. Students should use a variety of tools, materials and techniques, as appropriate, for recording their surroundings and source materials. Contextual understanding and professional practice.
Studying A Level Fine Art gives you the skills and knowledge to create personal and imaginative work. If you have an adventurous, creative and enquiring mind and are excited by shaping and determining the visual world around us, there is a career opportunity waiting for you.
Students should incorporate contextual investigation and translation as inspirational starting points for their development work. They will consider the work of others and use understanding gained to inform the progression of their own personal creativity.
What topics will I study? Fine Art course content. • Drawing • Painting • Mixed-media (including collage and assemblage) • Sculpture
When undertaking work in fine art, students will be required to engage with: • A range of materials and tools for making fine art, including, where appropriate, digital media. • Ways in which ideas and
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feelings can be communicated effectively through the organisation of materials and the formal elements. Concepts such as figuration, representation and abstraction. Various forms of presentation, and the ways that audiences may respond to or interact with them. The appropriate application of their chosen media and the ability to realise ideas through the techniques employed. Historical and contemporary themes and sources within the context of the chosen disciplines.
How will my work be assessed? There are two parts to the A Level. At A Level for component 1 you will develop work for a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme. This will consist of a portfolio of work supported by written material. This will count for 60% of your total A Level mark. In component 2 you will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting starting points which count for 40% of your total mark. Your work will be assessed by your teacher throughout the year with written and verbal feedback given. At the end of the course both components are internally marked and externally moderated. All work is assessed with reference to the four exam board criteria:
• Develop ideas • Explore media • Research, record, analyse, review
• Present outcomes You may be assessed for an AS qualification in this course at the end of your first year as a measure of your progress. What skills and interests do I need beforehand to be a successful applicant for this course? A general interest in the arts is essential and in particular, an interest in Fine Art . A creative open minded approach to using fine art materials and techniques, and drawing from observation. The subject is mainly coursework based so good time management is also essential. What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? You need to develop good practical skills in a range of materials and techniques You need to learn to be enquiring and analytical when looking at the work of other artists and making connections to your own work.
You will need to identify and explore the ideas that inform your artwork.
me keep organised, but it’s usually quite fun and I can do it in my own way.”
Are there any specific entry requirements? You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*-C, including Art and Design. Students who do not have Art and Design GCSE will be invited to college to do a short practical task before being accepted on the course.
“You can always ask the teacher for advice and get individual help in class.”
What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. Group briefings, slide shows, practical demonstrations, visits to galleries, research tasks, discussions, group and individual critiques. For much of the course you are working on individual, practical, or research based tasks. 1:1 support is available to all students. What do students say about this course? “Although we started off from the same theme, everyone ended up with totally different work by the end of the project.” “I am really pleased with how my skills and ideas have grown over the course and I want to go on to study further at Art College after my A levels.” “The work in class and for homework is structured which helps
What have I got to do in order to do well? Be creative and inventive with art materials and techniques. Manage time efficiently to complete all practical and research tasks on time. Learn by exploring the work of other artists. Keep your eyes open for inspiring visual sources at all times. Be prepared and equipped for all lessons. Are there similar qualifications to this one? If so how do I choose between them? There are four Visual Arts subjects: Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Textiles and Photography. Each follows the same specification and requires the development of a creative approach but a range of different techniques are learnt in each subject. There are different entry requirements.
Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? Fine Art is a great companion to all other subjects as creativity, imagination and problem solving skills can give you great ideas for your other subjects, and be transferrable skills that are looked upon favourably by universities and employers. What do people do with A Level Fine Art? Many students go on to an Art Foundation course. This is a general diagnostic year that allows students to try all Art and Design specialisms before going on to an higher education course. Some universities will accept students on to a Fine Art degree with A Levels and a portfolio, but many prefer students to complete the Foundation year. Possible degree options • 2D and 3D animation • 3D design • Applied arts • Architecture • Art history • Art therapy • Ceramics • Digital media • Fine art painting • Fine art printmaking • Fine art sculpture • Game design • Illustration • Interior architecture and design • Visual communication • Visual effects for film and
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television Possible career options Architect Art technician Art therapist Art valuer Artist in residence Arts administrator Community arts worker Illustrator Lecturer Multimedia artist Mural artist Museum/gallery curator Painter Printmaker Sculptor Teacher
Graphic Communication A Level When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020. For how long will I study? For two years. What is this course about? Graphic communication conveys information and ideas through visual means. The critical element for a graphic designer is the effective communication of a message or idea through the organisation of images and words. Graphic designers need to understand user and audience needs and how they respond to various forms of visual communication. What topics will I study? Graphic Communication course content. • Advertising • Communication Graphics • Design for print • Digital Design • Illustration • Multimedia • Packaging design • Product Identity • Typography
Drawing and other materials processes: Drawing in the context of graphic communication forms an essential part of the development process from initial idea to finished product; from rough sketches to diagrams setting out designs, including digital drawings. Students should use a variety of tools and materials, as appropriate, for recording their surroundings and source materials. Contextual understanding and professional practice: Students should incorporate contextual investigation and translation as inspirational starting points for their development work. They will consider the work of others and use understanding gained to inform the progression of their own personal creativity. When undertaking work in graphic communication, students will be required to engage with: • A range of materials and tools for graphic communication, including, where appropriate, digital media. • Ways in which information and ideas can be effectively communicated through an organisation of images
and words.
• How audiences may respond to
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the use of words, images and formal elements, with particular reference to colour, shape and composition. The basic typographical and layout requirements for digital and print-based products. Historical and contemporary themes and sources.
How will my work be assessed? At A Level for component 1 you will develop work for a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme. This will consist of a portfolio of work supported by written material. This will count for 60% of your total A Level mark. In component 2 you will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting starting points which counts for 40% of your total mark. Your work will be assessed by your teacher throughout the year with written and verbal feedback given. At the end of the course both components are internally marked and externally moderated. All work is assessed with reference to the four exam board set criteria: • Develop ideas • Explore media • Research, record, analyse, review • Present outcomes.
You may be assessed for an AS qualification in this course at the end of your first year as a measure of your progress. What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? You will need to develop good practical skills in terms of gathering visual sources and using graphic communication techniques and processes. You will need to learn to be enquiring and analytical when looking at the work of other designers and illustrators, and making connections to your own work. The course will introduce new techniques and processes assuming you have not used them before. If you have previous knowledge you will be able to build on it, extending your skills and ideas. Are there any specific entry requirements? You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*- C, including Art and Design or Graphics. Students who do not have Art and Design or Graphics GCSE will be invited to college to do a short practical task before being accepted on the course. What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. Group briefings, slide shows, practical demonstrations, research
tasks, discussions, group and individual critiques. For much of the course you are working on individual, practical projects. Mac based ICT or research based tasks also occur on the course. 1:1 support is available to all students.
Record feedback and act upon it to move on creatively.
What do students say about this course? “The course is very art based, it is different from Design Technology GCSE but very challenging and satisfying.”
Is there a similar qualification to this one? If so how do I choose between them? There are four Visual Arts subjects: Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Textiles and Photography. Each follows the same specification and requires the development of a creative approach but a range of different techniques are learnt in each subject. There are different entry requirements.
“I am pleasantly surprised at the way my work has changed and intend to study Graphic Design at a higher level when I finish my A Levels.” “We are frequently given individual advice on the development of practical ideas and introduced to inspiring sources.” “Doing my independent study when it is set has helped me to keep up to date on the course.” What have I got to do in order to do well? Be creative and inventive with a variety of materials and techniques. Manage time efficiently to complete all practical and research tasks. Learn by exploring the work and ideas of other artists, designers and illustrators. Be prepared and equipped for all lessons.
Record Primary Research from Life. Keep up to date with design magazines such as ‘Aesthetica’ and ‘EYE’.
Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? Graphic Communication is a great companion to all other subjects as creativity, imagination and problem solving skills can give you great ideas for your other subjects, and be transferable skills that are looked upon favourably by universities and employers What do people do with A Level Graphic Communication? Many students go on to an Art Foundation course. This is a general diagnostic year that allows students to try all Art and Design specialisms before going on to an higher education course. Some universities will accept students onto a Design
degree with A levels and a portfolio, but many prefer students to complete the Foundation year. Possible degree options: • Animation • Digital arts • Graphic communication • Graphic design • Graphic and communication design • Media design • Illustration • Printmaking • Packaging design • Typographic design • Possible career options Studying a graphic communication related degree at university will give you all sorts of exciting career opportunities including: • Advertising • Animator • Designer for film and television • Exhibition designer • Illustrator • Interior and spatial design • Marketing • Publishing • Production designer • Scientific or medical illustrator • Studio manager • Teacher • Typographer • Web and app designer
Media Studies A Level When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020.
range of media products including film, television, music, videos, magazines,
For how long will I study? For two years.
the internet, newspapers, video games and advertising.
What is this course about? Media Studies encourages you to think critically about the messages you receive daily from the mass media.
Theoretical frameworks: You will be taught to understand media texts using the four main theoretical frameworks: • Media language • Representation • Media industries • Media audiences
The syllabus covers film, newspapers, magazines, video games, radio, television and advertising. We look at media institutions - who owns which companies and how are they run - the outputs they produce (newspapers, TV, films, websites etc) and the audiences who watch or read them. There is a practical production unit in which students are asked to create media products in video, print or e-media. The course develops skills which are a valuable preparation for a wide range of degree subjects and career choices. What topics will I study? Analysis skills: You will learn how to analyse a
Practical production work: You will be asked to create a media product for the coursework project either in print, video or online. Your product must demonstrate the research, planning, shooting and editing skills you have developed on the course. How will my work be assessed? The media production coursework unit will be worth 30% of the marks. It will be internally marked and externally moderated. The remainder of the course will be assessed through two examinations sat at the end of the second year, both externally marked.
What skills and interests do I need beforehand to be a successful applicant for this course? An interest in and awareness of what is happening in the media across film, television, print and the internet. You should enjoy research work and the challenge of working independently. You need to be prepared to tackle difficult theoretical issues and read up on current media issues and debates What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? You need to develop the ability to question and criticise the media and to develop your own independent response to texts. You must be willing to learn the practical and technical skills needed to create original media products. You will need to produce quality practical coursework and write coherent and analytical essays. You need to understand and apply media concepts, theories and debates. Are there any specific entry requirements? You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*-C including a grade 4 in English Language. What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. These include detailed textual
analysis of media products such as magazines and films, and in-depth studies of specific areas of media such as film, TV and advertising. More conceptual areas such as genre and representation are covered in greater detail in the 2nd year. Independent research through books and the internet is part of A Level coursework. There is substantial practical coursework throughout the two years. 1:1 support is available to all students. What do students say about this course? “It has completely changed how I look at the media. Now I analyse everything I watch.” “It was fun learning to use the cameras and making my own film trailer. At first I was worried about using the computers to do the editing but I quickly got the hang of it.” “Media Studies has made me more confident that I can write essays and do well.” “The hardest part is learning to use the long words and theories to discuss what we have seen.”
What have I got to do in order to do well? Watch and learn by exploring media developments across film, TV, print and internet. Keep to all deadlines for written work and manage time efficiently for practical tasks. Devote substantial time to coursework assignments. Learn thoroughly all exam topics. Is there a similar qualification to this one? If so how do I choose between them? A Level Film Studies is closely related but focuses on the medium of film.
Arts in combination with Fine Art, Photography, Performing Arts, Drama and Dance. Students more interested in the business of technological aspects of the media often take IT or Business Studies alongside. What do people do with A Level Media Studies? Many students choose to study the media further and go on to take academic degree courses in film, media and cultural studies. Others decide to take more practical degree courses in subjects such as television production, journalism and video editing.
Level 3 CAMTEC in Digital Media Production is the equivalent of one A Level.
If you decide not to continue your study of the media any further, an A Level in Media Studies will still support your application to a huge range of unrelated university courses and career paths.
It enables you to understand film making and produce several different types of video, working on pre-production, filming and post production techniques. It has different entry requirements.
It is very difficult but not impossible to progress straight from an A Level in Media Studies to working in the media. Most media careers will expect you to have studied at a higher level.
Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? This is a subject that complements a diverse range of other analytical subjects such as Film Studies, English, History, Law, Criminology and Psychology, or can broaden an interest in Media and the
Photography A Level When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020. For how long will I study? For two years. What is this course about? The new linear A level course offers students the opportunity to learn about the history of photography, its techniques and processes and how to apply an understanding of visual language and the formal elements. We want students to experience the magic of the darkroom as well as the wonders of digital processing when they are “drawing with light”. This will support our students in learning how to develop a sophisticated body of work in the 2nd year. What topics will I study? Over the course of the two years, areas explored include: • Film-based photography • Digital photography / dark room • Moving image (Film, video, animation) • Multimedia • Studio Photography • Experimental imagery • Photographic installation • Students will be required to work in one or more of the disciplines to communicate their ideas.
Drawing and other materials processes The word photography could be taken to mean ‘a graphic representation with light’. In this way a photograph can take on the qualities of a drawing. In the context of this endorsed title, drawing forms an essential element of both development and final product. A camera can record the observed world but is not able on its own to explore ideas. Students must reflect on, refine and apply the observations they make with a camera, and determine which tools or techniques are most appropriate in their exploration of ideas. Photography includes works in film, video, digital imaging and lightsensitive materials. Contextual understanding and professional practice Students should incorporate contextual investigation and translation as inspirational starting points for their development work. They will consider the work of others
and use understanding gained to inform the progression of their own personal creativity.
• Practical work • Personal study of a minimum
When undertaking work in photography, students will be required to engage with: • The operations and principles of creating a photographic image, including the use of available and controlled light, lenses, cameras and light-sensitive materials, including digital and non-digital. • A range of materials used in photography, including print and screen-based materials. • Ways in which ideas, feelings and information can be communicated effectively through photographic images. • How the formal elements evoke responses in the viewer, with particular reference to tone, colour, shape and composition. • The processes for production of digital and print-based photographs. • Methods of presentation of photographic images. • Historical and contemporary themes and sources within the context of the chosen disciplines.
Component 2 Externally Set Assignment The exam board set theme is distributed in February, you will have 8 weeks to investigate, develop and plan your response to a choice of themes. You then have 15 hours to produce a personal outcomes.
How will my work be assessed? There are two parts to the A Level.
A general interest in various areas of photography and visual ideas is an advantage.
Component 1 Personal Investigation This component incorporates three major elements: • Supporting studies
1000 words of continuous prose.
Your work will be assessed by your teacher throughout the year with written and verbal feedback given. At the end of the course both components are internally marked and externally moderated. All work is assessed with reference to the four exam board set criteria. • Develop ideas • Explore media • Research, record, analyse, review • Present outcomes. You may be assessed for an AS qualification in this course at the end of your first year as a measure of your progress. What skills and interests do I need beforehand to be a successful applicant for this course?
You must have the enthusiasm to go out on location and take photographs.
The subject is mainly coursework based so good time management is essential.
For much of the course you are working on individual, practical, ILT or research based tasks.
What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? You will need to develop good practical skills in taking and printing photographs, and be able to make informed visual judgements.
1:1 support is available to all students.
You will need to develop the ability to be enquiring and analytical when looking at the work of other photographers and make connections to your own work. The course will introduce you to photographic techniques assuming that you have no previous experience or knowledge. This will allow you to start photography as a new subject, or build on an existing interest. Are there any specific entry requirements? You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*-C. You will also be asked to bring evidence of your interest in photography to your enrolment interview. What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. Group briefings, slide shows, practical demonstrations, research tasks, discussions, group and individual critiques.
Do I need to own a camera? Yes you will need a digital camera. You will also need access to an SLR film camera. These can usually be acquired through family and friends. What do students say about this course? “I have really enjoyed working with the various darkroom techniques.” “I am pleased with the way my work has developed and intend to study Photography at a higher level when I finish my A Levels.” “We are frequently given individual advice about our work, and are shown some interesting and inspiring sources.” What have I got to do in order to do well? Be creative and inventive with photographic techniques and processes. Manage time efficiently to complete all practical and research tasks. Learn by exploring the work of other photographers. Keep your eyes open for inspiring places and subjects to photograph.
Be prepared and equipped for all lessons. Is there a similar qualification to this one? If so how do I choose between them? There are four A level Visual Arts subjects, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Textiles and Photography. Each follows the same specification and requires the development of a creative approach but a range of different techniques are learnt in each subject. There are different entry requirements. Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? Photography is a great companion to all other subjects as creativity, imagination and problem solving skills can give you great ideas for your other subjects. What do people do with A Level Photography? Many students go on to an Art Foundation course. This is a general diagnostic year that allows students to try all Art and Design specialisms before going on to an higher education course. Some universities will accept students onto a Photography degree with A Levels and a portfolio. Possible degree options • Animation • Commercial photography • Creative and editorial photography
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Digital media Fashion photography Film and television Film and visual culture Forensic photography Graphics with photography Medical photography Visual communication
Possible career options Studying a photography related degree at university will give you all sorts of exciting career opportunities including: • Commercial photographer • Fashion photographer • Filmmaker • Fine art photographer • Forensic photographer • Industrial photographer • Medical photographer • Nature photographer • Photographic illustrator • Photographic technician • Teacher • Photojournalist • Picture editor • Researcher • Social photographer • Sports photographer
Textile Design A Level When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020. For how long will I study? For two years. What is this course about? The Textile Design course offers the opportunity to develop skills over a broad range of textile and fashion techniques and applications, such as printing, weaving, knitting, mixed media, digital applications, surface design, embroidery and installation. Practical work is produced by researching and developing ideas using drawing, digital exploration, sketchbooks and work sheets, supported by critical evaluation and an awareness of contemporary and historical influences. What topics will I study? Textile Design course content: • Fashion design • Fashion textiles • Costume design • Digital textiles • Printed and/or dyed fabrics and materials • Domestic textiles, wallpaper • Interior design • Constructed textiles • Art textiles • Installed textiles
Drawing and other materials or processes. At the core of any textile art and design related practice is drawing. Drawing is an essential skill in the development process, from initial visual research, recording from primary sources, through to the translation of ideas into finished designs. Contextual understanding and professional practice. Students should incorporate contextual investigation and translation as inspirational starting points for their textiles development work. They will consider the work of others and use understanding gained to inform the progression of their own personal creativity. In addition it is important that students are aware of current trends in textile and fashion design and development in order to be aware of current trends. When undertaking work in textile design, students will be required to engage with: • A range of materials and tools used for textiles processes and, where appropriate, digital processes. Approaches to textile design including the ways in which colour,
texture and pattern evoke emotional responses. • The application of textile design to the development of design ideas. • The appropriateness of the chosen media and the ability to realise the full potential of their ideas through the techniques employed. • Historical and contemporary themes and sources within the context of the chosen disciplines. How will my work be assessed? Component 1: You will develop work for a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme. This will consist of a portfolio of work supported by written material. This will count for 60% of your total mark. Component 2: You will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting starting points which count for 40% of your total mark. Your work will be assessed by your teacher throughout the year with written and verbal feedback given. At the end of the course both components are internally marked and externally moderated. All work is assessed with reference to the four exam board set criteria. Develop ideas Explore media Research, record, analyse, review Present outcomes. You may be assessed for an AS qualification in this course at the end of your first year as a measure of your progress.
Are there any specific entry requirements? You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*-C, including Art and Design or Textiles. Students who do not have Art and Design or Textiles GCSE will be given a short research and practical task to complete before being accepted on the course. What skills and interests do I need beforehand to be a successful applicant for this course? A general interest in other areas of art, design or interior design is an advantage and a particular interest in fashion, textiles fine art or sculpture is essential. Any practical skills gained in GCSE Art and Design or Creative Textiles will be useful. The course focuses on the creation of textile surfaces that can be made into fashion or fine art outcomes. It is therefore not similar to GCSE DT Textiles although the ability to use a sewing machine and make garments could be useful, but is not essential. The course will introduce new textile techniques assuming you have not used them before. This will also help you to build on previous knowledge. What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? Good practical skills in terms of using textile materials and techniques in an experimental and inventive way.
Be enquiring and analytical when looking at the work of other artists and designers, and making connections to your own work. Good observational skills, the ability to recognise interesting sources of inspiration. What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. Group briefings, slide shows, practical demonstrations, research tasks, discussions, group and individual critiques. For much of the course you are working on individual, practical tasks or research based tasks. 1:1 support is available to all students. What do students say about this course? “Textiles was something that I have never really tried before, but I am really glad I took up the course as it proved to be really exciting and I am now thinking of taking many of the ideas and techniques learnt into my Art Foundation course next year at university.” “The teacher gets you through the course really well and really helps you concentrate. You learn brilliant techniques that help you create great ideas.” “I enjoyed the textiles course because I was taught new techniques and how to incorporate
inspiration and ideas into my projects in a style that suited me.” What have I got to do in order to do well? • Be creative and inventive with textile materials and techniques. • Manage time efficiently to complete all practical and research tasks. • Learn by exploring the work of other artists and designers. • Keep your eyes open for inspiring sources at all times. • Be prepared and equipped for all lessons. Is there a similar qualification to this one? If so how do I choose between them? There are four Visual Arts subjects: Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Textiles and Photography. Each follows the same specification and requires the development of a creative approach. A range of different techniques are learnt in each subject. There are different entry requirements. Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? Textile Design is a great companion to all other subjects as creativity, imagination and problem solving skills can give you great ideas for your other subjects and be transferable skills that are looked upon favourably by universities and employer.
What do people do with A Level Textiles? Many students go on to an Art Foundation course. This is a general diagnostic year that allows students to try all Art and Design specialisms before going on to an HE course. Possible degree options • Constructed textiles • Contemporary textiles • Costume design • Digital textiles • Fashion design • Fashion promotion/ merchandising • Footwear design • Printed textiles • Sportswear design • Surface design • Textile design • Textile science and technology • Theatre design • Possible career options • Studying a textile design related degree at university will give you all sorts of exciting career opportunities including: • Textile technologist • Colour trender or stylist • Costume designer • Creative director • Digital textiles designer • Fashion designer • Fashion illustrator • Fashion journalist • Fashion stylist • Interior designer • Museum/gallery conservator • Pattern cutter • Retail buyer • Teacher or lecturer
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Textile designer Theatre designer Upholsterer Wallpaper designer Career opportunities exist in fashion design, fashion illustration, textile design, marketing, trend prediction, interior design, fine art and craft areas, teaching, and research or museum work. Students can go on to work for companies or as freelance designers.
Digital Media
CAMTEC Level 3 Certificate/Extended Certificate When do I start studying for this qualification? September 2020. For how long will I study? For two years. What is this course about? This course aims to give students experience and expertise in media productions in a range of contexts. Emphasis is upon student-led practical study and coupled with a theoretical/conceptual study of media production practice. This course is equivalent to one A Level. Students who complete the first year only will achieve a Certificate in Digital Media (½ of an A-Level). What topics will I study? Students will; • Learn how to write, plan and manage the production of media content. • Learn how to research and produce media content in a format appropriate to their subject. • Study theories and concepts in media production and the working of the media industry
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and apply them to the analysis of case histories. Students will respond to briefs set internally by the college and externally by the exam board. They will work in fiction, factual and Fine Art contexts.
How will my work be assessed? Units are internally and externally assessed. The unit grades are added together to give you your final results: Pass, Merit or Distinction. Exceptional students are awarded a Distinction*. Your coursework will be assessed by your teacher throughout the year and written and verbal feedback given. There are 3 units a year. One unit is an examination unit and two are coursework units. The examination will be undertaken in June. Marking is completed with reference to grading criteria set for each unit of study. What skills and interests do I need beforehand to be a successful applicant for this course? A passionate interest in media (film,
TV production, advertising, the visual arts etc.) is essential. Tenacity: Each production will demand a great deal of commitment from you. You do not need to have any previous experience or knowledge of media production. We will teach you everything you will need to make a success of this course. You do not need to have your own equipment either. What skills will I need to develop during the course to succeed? To be observant and analytical when looking at the work of other media content creators. Attention to detail. You will need to pay attention to each and every aspect of your productions, scriptwriting, sound recording and mixing, camera movement, lighting. Communication and team work. It takes more than one person to make a media production! You must be committed to developing strong communication skills. Creativity: You will be expected to think creatively at every stage of production from the beginning of the course. Are there any specific entry requirements? You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 or A*- C.
What are the lessons like? A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course: group assignments, video presentations, practical demonstrations and tasks, research tasks, discussions, group and individual critiques, student presentations and student led production activities. 1:1 support is available to all students. What do students say about this course? “This course helped me to get a head start on my degree course.” (Said by undergraduates on TV and Video Production and Documentary Production courses). “This course has helped me to decide on my career.” “This is my favourite course!” “I am proud of my short films and documentaries.” What have I got to do in order to do well? Be creative and inventive with scriptwriting and media production techniques. Manage time efficiently to complete all creative, planning, practical and research tasks. Plan your work meticulously: make each image and sound meaningful. Keep your eyes open for inspiring
sources at all times. Be prepared and equipped for all lessons. Is there a similar qualification to this one? If so how do I choose between them? The Digital Media course enables you to understand the production processes, industry and audience contexts within the media and produce several different types of media content, working on pre-production, filming and post production techniques, among other processes. A Level Film Studies offers the opportunity to explore a range of film styles, understand critical debates in Film and complete a relevant practical task. There is a mix of exams and coursework. A level Media Studies enables you to explore and understand how the Media work and complete a relevant practical task. There is a mix of exams and coursework. Are there any other qualifications which combine particularly well with this one? This is a subject that complements a diverse range of other subjects, or can broaden an interest in Media and the Arts.
What do people do with a Digital Media Level 3 National Extended Certificate? Past students have gone on to study degrees in TV and Video Production, Documentary Production, Digital Screen Arts, Scriptwriting, Video and Film Production, Critical and Historical Studies and Games Design. Some have found employment in the Media. Some students go on to an Art Foundation course. You can readily combine the course with A Levels to gain entry to an enormous range of higher education courses. In the past students have successfully applied to degree courses in Philosophy, History and Law, among others.
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