Art, Craft & Design
Art Craft and Design is a two-year course where you will explore working with 2-dimensional, 3-dimensional or time-based approaches. Taking a course in Art, Craft, and Design offers a dynamic exploration of creativity through a diverse range of materials and techniques. Students can expect to engage with traditional and contemporary practices, experimenting with mediums like painting, textiles, ceramics, and digital design. Throughout the course, learners will develop essential skills in both practical and theoretical aspects of artmaking. They'll learn to adapt their approaches to suit various disciplines, fostering a multidisciplinary mindset that encourages innovation and collaboration.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Level 2 BTEC: Merit
- GCSE: Grade 5
- Portfolio
RECOMMENDED SUBJECT COMBINATIONS
WHAT TO EXPECT
Expect hands-on projects that challenge you to think critically about form, function, and aesthetics, while also considering scale—from small, intricate pieces to larger installations. The curriculum typically emphasizes the importance of context, allowing students to explore how their work interacts with cultural and societal issues.
UNITS STUDIED
- Component 1: Personal Investigation
- Component 2: Externally Set Task
HOW IT’S ASSESSED
- Component 1: A Portfolio of work which equates to 60% of the final grade.
- A supporting 1000–3000-word Contextual Essay.
- Component 2: Externally set exam with a 15-hour Examination at the end of the course in the second year
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
- Research and investigate
- Analyse and evaluate work
- Develop and experiment
- Refine work as it develops
PROGRESSION
Students who complete an A-level in Art, Craft, and Design can progress in various ways:
- Higher Education: Many students choose to pursue a degree in art and design fields such as Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, or Architecture. This further education deepens their skills and expands their creative and technical knowledge.
- Specialisation: Students can focus on a specific medium or technique, such as textile design, ceramics, or digital media, allowing them to develop a unique artistic identity.
- Portfolio Development: Building a strong portfolio is crucial for further studies or entering the job market. Students learn to curate and present their work effectively, which can lead to internships or exhibitions.
- Professional Training: Some may opt for vocational courses or apprenticeships in creative industries, gaining practical experience and industry connections.
- Freelance and Entrepreneurship: Graduates often explore freelance opportunities, starting their own art or design businesses, or engaging in community art projects,
- Teaching and Mentoring: With additional qualifications, students can consider teaching art at schools or workshops, sharing their passion and knowledge with others.
- Interdisciplinary Work: Graduates can collaborate with professionals in other fields, such as education, community development, or technology, applying their artistic skills in varied contexts.
Overall, an A-level in Art, Craft, and Design provides a strong foundation for diverse career paths and further education opportunities in the creative sector.
WHY CHOOSE THIS SUBJECT?
Studying Art, Craft and Design will allow you to fully explore a range of techniques and develop your individual artist practice across a range of media. The course is tailored to suit individual talents and to build a creative portfolio, suitable for entry to higher level creative courses.