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Art, Craft & Design A Level (Alton)

A Level

A Level Art and Design student painting a wall

Availability & Details

Art & Design - A Level AF1-ARDEAL/C01

Venue
Alton Campus

Type of study
A Levels

Dates
Academic Year 2027-28 (2 years)

Examination board
Pearson Education Ltd (Formerly EDEXCEL)

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Overview

This course focuses on fine art skills but is directly relevant to careers in architecture, illustration, product design, graphic design,and fashion. Developing creativity encourages independent thinking and complements academic studies.Students enjoy visits to London galleries and opportunities to experience cultural destinations abroad. Developing the resourcefulness to work independently is essential for success.

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a creative or technical subject. If a creative subject was not taken at GCSE then we need to review a portfolio of material showing enthusiasm and good practice.

The course begins with thematic projects offering wide choices in portraiture, landscapes, abstract, conceptual art, and illustration. This develops technical skills and personal interests.

Students gain experience with:

  • Drawing & Painting: Charcoal, pencil, inks, watercolours, and acrylics.
  • Printmaking & Mixed Media: Relief, intaglio, and Riso printing, stencilling, spray painting, collage, and typography.
  • Digital & Photography: Digital artwork, photomontage, and photography for primary research.
  • 3D, Sculpture & Architecture: 3D materials, sculpture, and modelmaking tailored for architecture.
  • Contextual Research: Artist research and London gallery visits. In the first year, students cover extensive practical techniques.

In the second year, they focus on personal ideas via the Personal Development Project, which includes an integral 3,000-word essay. Students then create development work for an Externally Set Assignment, culminating in a 15-hour exam over 3 days.

Lesson activities include plenty of time to develop your ideas and imagery with guidance from tutors, alongside workshop sessions where new skills are developed and critical discussion of students and artists’ work. You are encouraged to work in a range of media such as drawing, painting, collage, digital, 3D and printmaking.

Art is directly relevant to a wide range of careers from architect to tattooist. The creative and independent way of thinking art encouranges is valuable in all walks of life.

60% Coursework, 40% Exam.

Printing and art materials approximately £15-£20/term.


Optional trips from £15 each. There is an annual overseas Creative Visual
Arts department trip.

This programme prepares students exceptionally well for higher education. Painting, drawing, and 3D design form the core foundation for all specialisms in art and design. Students typically progress to a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, followed by degree courses across a wide range of creative disciplines.


I overcame a couple of barriers by working really hard to get the top grades. My experience was really good, with the course and the lecturers, the residentials and activities, together it was all really good. I had really great teaching support, I could always go to the lecturers and speak to them if I needed to.

David Stenning, Public Services student

My time at the college was definitely life changing, I have learnt a lot of new skills, and obviously it’s a completely new experience. The support was great, there was always people there to help and try make it as easy as they can for you. The college is really fantastic, it has helped me on the way to get to what I want to achieve within my career goals.

Erin Morgan, BTEC student

The teaching has been really good, I’ve loved all of my teachers, they’ve all been really nice and supportive.

Jodie Hook