Fine Art A Level Entry Requirements

Any Art & Design GCSE Grade 4 or a Technology GCSE Grade 4 including Resistant Materials, Product Design, Graphics Products, Textiles or equivalent. If you haven’t studied Art, no problem, just come and speak to one of the tutors.

Introduction

The broadest of all the individual specialisms, A Level Fine Art covers a wide variety of media and techniques, these include traditional drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture. However, it also covers more contemporary art including installation art, animation, film, photography, digital imagery and animation.

What you will study

  • Gain practical skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sculpture, ceramics, photography and film
  • Learn theoretical skills including research and source analysis
  • Understand how context shapes meaning
  • Apply the elements and principles of Art and Design
  • Learn how to link your work to both historical and contemporary art practice
  • Develop transferable skills valued by universities and employers

Assessment

Fine Art is a coursework subject (Two projects in year two).

-Component 1 – Personal Investigation (60% of A Level grade) This is a practical investigation supported by an extended essay. You will produce personal work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme.

Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment (40% of A Level grade) You will produce practical work in response to one of eight starting points on the AQA exam paper. Following the preparatory period, you will have 15 hours of supervised time to create a refined outcome.

Course Support

We encourage you to produce ambitious artworks and study that reflects your interests, curiosities and passions.

  • Engaging lessons are delivered by experienced and supportive staff
  • Additional tutorials including one-to-one support with individual targets
  • Regular feedback and assessment
  • Specialist media, materials, techniques and processes
  • An open studio for you to complete your work
  • Additional High Achievers+ activities

Enrichment Activities

  • Local, regional and national competitions
  • Opportunities to exhibit your artwork in galleries and online
  • Workshops with artists and industry professionals
  • Life drawing classes
  • Trips and visits

Progression

Many of our students progress onto the UAL Art Foundation Diploma and then access Higher Education. Students have gained prestigious University places at Goldsmiths, Central St. Martin’s, Falmouth, Edinburgh, Ruskin School of Art, Oxford and others. Students have progressed on to courses such as: Fine Art, Architecture, Textile Design, Illustration, Graphic Design, and Animation.

You can also use your creativity, problem-solving and communication skills to access a variety of other courses where your skills will be beneficial, such as: Business Studies, Engineering, Science and Medicine, the Social Sciences, as well as Languages courses.

More Information

Follow the Fine Art Instagram account to see examples of student work – @carmelcollegefineart

FINE ART course leaflet

Exam Board Course Specification

What Our Students Say

The Fine Art course offers great support from staff in an encouraging and challenging enrichment. It allows you to break your creative boundaries whilst exploring a wide range of themes and personal projects.
This is a subject in which diverse thought and individuality is cultivated, and has helped me grow and progress in my artistic journey through the study of new techniques and mediums

Zofia Kozinska (Calderstones School)

Zofia Kozinskasm fine art A-Level student