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Art, Craft & Design A Level (Alton)

A Level

A Level Art and Design student painting a wall

Art, Craft & Design A Level (Alton)

A Level

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.

Everyone at the College was really helpful, and there’s lots of facilities, meaning it’s very easy to get your work done on time, and get good grades. The teaching and support was excellent, they were always on top of it, and made sure you got work done on time and you were challenged. Everyone is friendly and its really diverse, meaning you can get involved in lots of different things.

Conor Ward, BTEC student

My experience at the college was enjoyable and productive, with thoroughly helpful people surrounding you, an excellent experience. I wasn’t expecting it to be as good as it was, with the work shop time and experience I had, it was a great two years preparing me for the next stage.

Edward Smith, BTEC student

My courses were all especially interesting, I thoroughly enjoyed all of them. All of my lecturers were extremely knowledgeable and I have learnt a lot from them.

Lottie Warren, A Level student