Art, Craft and Design A Level offers students the opportunity to explore and develop their creativity through a wide range of artistic practices. This course encourages experimentation with different media, techniques, and artistic concepts, providing a comprehensive foundation in the visual arts. Students will develop their skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital media, all while exploring the historical and cultural contexts of art.
Queen Mary’s College have access to a wealth of industry standard equipment and resources and benefit from excellent relationships with universities, artists and designers who support our students progressing into successful careers within the arts.
Queen Mary's College Art and design students doing pottery
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What will I study?
Throughout this course students will explore a diverse range of artistic practices, techniques, and creative processes, including:
Drawing & Painting – Mastering traditional and contemporary methods to develop personal expression and technical skills.
Sculpture & 3D Design – Exploring materials and processes to create three-dimensional forms and structures.
Printmaking – Experimenting with techniques such as screen printing, lithography, and etching to create unique artworks.
Digital Media & Photography – Using digital tools and photography to enhance artistic expression and explore visual communication.
Textiles & Fashion Design – Focusing on fabric manipulation, surface design, and the principles of fashion design.
Art History & Critical Theory – Studying influential artists, art movements, and the historical context of creative works to inform and inspire your own practice.
This comprehensive curriculum encourages experimentation, creativity, and independent thinking in both traditional and modern art forms.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs graded 4/5 or above, including English, and ideally Maths.
A keen interest in developing artistic techniques and exploring new ideas.
How Will I Be Assessed?
60% Coursework (Personal Investigation):
Students will develop a personal project over the course of the year, including research, experimentation, and a final outcome. The project will also include a 1,000-3,000-word written element exploring the context of their work.
40% Externally Set Assignment (Final Exam Project):
A timed practical exam (15 hours) based on a set theme, with preparatory studies leading to a final piece.
Assessment is based on creativity, skill development, research, and the ability to communicate ideas effectively through visual work.
Subject Combinations
A Level Art, Craft and Design pairs well with subjects that foster creativity, critical thinking, and design skills, such as:
Graphic Communication – Explores visual communication, design, and digital media.
Photography – Focuses on image-making, composition, and visual storytelling.
Textiles – Complements work in fashion, fabrics, and surface design.
Design & Technology – Applies artistic skills in functional design and engineering.
Progression Pathway
A Level Art, Craft and Design provides a strong foundation for a wide range of university courses and creative careers, including:
Higher Education: Fine Art, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Illustration, Architecture, Photography, Art History, and Product Design.
Apprenticeships: Opportunities in digital design, publishing, textile production, and creative agencies.
Hear From Our Students
Where can this course take me?
Sophie Ellis
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The creative arts are at the forefront of British economic growth. The understanding engendered through studying art, design and photography at QMC equips young people with visual literacy which enriches their lives and their cognition, whilst the skills they learn prepare them for higher level study or employment.
Art, Craft and Design develops drawing, printmaking, mixed media and design skills and is good for entry onto any creative or Art & Design based degree course. Typical career options include architecture, fine art, illustration, textile design, interiors, fashion design, fashion promotion and three-dimensional design, including jewellery, costume and theatre.
Students have gone on to study degrees at institutions including Central St Martins, Royal College of Art, London College of Fashion, Royal School of Needlework, UCA (Farnham, Epsom), UAL (Kingston, Camberwell), Manchester Metropolitan, Bournemouth, Falmouth, Brighton, Winchester and UWE (Bristol).
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
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Practicing Artists
You will be given the opportunity to go on trips to galleries and locations to enhance your experience by looking at the work of others and engaging in practical activities away from the classroom. We believe that these experiences are vital to your development as an artist and would urge you to take these opportunities whenever you can.
One of the key experiences we offer is our annual trip to Venice at the start of the second year. The students who come with us get an amazing experience and come back having developed their practice and understanding and with a body of work which really pushes them forward as photographers and artists. As well as the work you produce for your A level, you will be given opportunities to enter local and national competitions and engage in projects outside of your normal studies. We regularly have talks from universities, artists and companies to give you a broader understanding of future options and if you decide to pursue Art past A level, we will work with you to put together your portfolio and prepare for interviews.
We also offer a wide range of enrichments within the art department, to help develop your skills and give you a broader experience which will benefit your future ambitions, such as:
Art – Unwind your mind art enrichment
Embroidery Class
Fashion Production
Photography Workshop
Professional Practice- Art Curation and Exhibitions
Do I need to be an experienced artist to study this A Level?
No, the course is designed for students who want to develop their artistic skills, regardless of previous experience. A passion for creativity and a willingness to experiment are key!
Will I need to buy expensive materials?
The studio fee of £50 provides most of the essential materials, but you may wish to invest in specific items depending on your chosen medium for personal projects. Guidance will be provided.
What types of art will I create in this course?
You will explore a range of art forms, including traditional drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, and textiles.
Is there a written component in this A Level?
Yes, there is a written element where you will research and analyse your own work and the work of others, as well as explore art history and theory.
Will this A Level help me get into a creative career?
Absolutely! This A Level is highly respected by art and design universities, and it provides the skills and portfolio needed for a wide variety of creative industries.
