Note - you only need to make one application for A-levels. You can specify the additional A-Levels you wish to study when you fill out the application form
This A-level course will enable learners to explore, research and acquire techniques and develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of Fine Art. The course provides a thorough and rewarding programme of study, exploring traditional methods and/or digital techniques. You will undertake extensive practical and theoretical/historical studies, always with the discipline of drawing at the core.
Learners are required to work in one or more area(s) of Fine Art, such as portraiture, landscape, still life, human form, abstraction, experimental imagery, narrative, installation, and working in a genre. Combinations of these areas are also possible.
Students of Fine Art are expected to demonstrate specialisation with materials, media or processes to allow for an appropriate depth of study within set projects. Possible Fine Art processes include drawing, printmaking, painting, sculpture, mixed media, digital art, and installation.
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English Language at grade 5 (C/B) and Maths at grade 4 (C).
In addition, you should have GCSE Art and Design or a similar creative subject at grade 5 [C/B] or above.
A small portfolio of your work will be required. You will be expected to demonstrate a keen interest in art and design and to have good awareness of contemporary trends in the discipline.
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.
The Advanced GCE in Fine Art consists of two components, both teacher assessed and externally moderated.
Component 01: Personal investigation
There are two distinct elements:
Students can choose a starting point from any of the seven given themes for which they will generate an appropriate personal response for assessment. They will carry out preparatory work to research, plan and develop their ideas, before engaging in 15 hours of supervised time to complete their work.
Work is continually assessed, and you will discuss and evaluate your own work.
Component 1: Personal Investigation: internally set, assessed by the teacher and externally moderated - 60% of the total qualification
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment: externally set, assessed by the teacher and externally moderated - 40% of the total qualification
A small studio fee of £25 will be required for this subject. This covers the cost of essential course materials and resources. However, if you wish to explore additional specialist materials or non-traditional materials that are not covered within the course, you will be responsible for sourcing and providing such materials. You will also need to contribute towards compulsory visits to London - or other - galleries to undertake essential research.
Following successful completion of this Advanced Level course, it is expected that learners will have achieved the in-depth knowledge, understanding and skills in Fine Art that will aid their progression to foundation and degree-related study.
Note - you only need to make one application for A-levels. You can specify the additional A-Levels you wish to study when you fill out the application form
Former Peak Award winner Emily Gray was motivated to achieve “more than she ever thought she was capable of” while studying for A levels at Derby College.
And, since leaving Joseph Wright Centre 10 years ago, she has quite literally gone a long way – to university in Melbourne, Australia, to take a Master of Education degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis.
Now 27, Emily received a Peak Award for Academic Studies after performing well in her sociology, history and psychology A levels and EPQ, the Extended Project Qualification.
While on her psychology degree course at the University of Leeds, Emily embarked on a study year at Monash University in Melbourne.
And, since graduating, she has taught English in Peru, volunteered and worked in Sri Lanka and travelled in Australia before settling in Melbourne with her partner.
Currently studying for her master’s at Monash University, Emily also works as a site manager at a centre-based intervention service based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) for pre-school aged children on the autism spectrum. She ultimately wants to become a clinical psychologist or clinical director of an agency providing ABA.
Commenting on her Peak Award in 2009, Emily added that it was “really unexpected and a huge honour.” She included the award in her CV and found it was “something she was able to talk about in interviews.”
My lecturers were fantastic! They were really passionate about their subject, particularly psychology lecturer Glyn Pickering, who motivated me and pushed me to achieve more than I thought I was capable of.
I also got great support at Derby College in applying for university and higher education. I was able to go on a residential trip to experience Oxford University, and received specialist and individual help with my application, personal statement and interview preparation.