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Art (Fine)

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The Art learning area is a relaxed and supportive environment.

You will be guided to develop your own independence and encouraged to explore and experiment in response to different sources. As this is a small learning area, we can guarantee that support will be personal and tailored to your needs.

You will be required to work in one or more area of Fine Art although you may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas, such as: drawing and painting; mixed-media; collage and assemblage; sculpture; ceramics; installation; printmaking (relief, intaglio, screen processes and lithography); moving image; and photography.

This course directly supports progression to further and higher education, providing students with a rich platform to inspire a lifelong interest in art and design.

Entry Criteria

5 in GCSE Art

Companion Subjects

Business

Media Studies

3D Design

Photography (Digital)

Career Paths

  • Marketing

  • Advertising

  • Finance

  • Human Resources

  • Management

  • Accounting

  • Retail

  • Sales

  • Public Relations

Subject Intent

Art and Design is a space where students explore creative thinking, visual communication, and self-expression. Through a broad and inspiring curriculum, learners develop both technical skill and independent vision. This course nurtures curiosity, personal voice, and confidence—essential for a wide range of artistic and academic futures.

Course Overview

Title:

  • Fine Art (7202)

Includes two components:

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%)

  • A practical portfolio of work based on an idea, issue, or theme of personal interest

  • Supported by a written element (1,000–3,000 words)

  • Internally assessed, externally moderated

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

  • Preparatory period followed by a 15-hour controlled assessment

  • A choice of themes set by AQA—students develop their own personal response

Assessment Summary

Component 1

Portfolio + written investigation
60%

Component 2

Externally Set Task (15-hour final piece)
40%

There is no written exam—assessment is entirely based on portfolio and final practical outcomes.

Work is marked on:

  • Developing ideas

  • Refining techniques

  • Recording observations

  • Presenting a meaningful final outcome

Homework & Independent Study

  • Sketchbook development

  • Gallery or online exhibition reviews

  • Artist research and contextual analysis

  • Experimentation with new media or techniques

  • Portfolio refinement and annotation

Enrichment Opportunities

  • Trips to art galleries, studios, and exhibitions

  • Artist or designer workshops

  • Cross-subject projects (e.g. with photography, textiles, or media)

Where Can Art Take You?

This A-Level supports careers and courses in:

  • Fine Art, Illustration, Graphic Design, Architecture, Photography, Fashion, Animation, Art History, and Curation

  • It’s also valuable for any career that values creative problem-solving, independent thinking, and visual literacy

Universities, design schools, and creative employers all value a strong portfolio—and this course helps students build one with pride.

Curriculum Content 

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