What will I be learning?
We teach the AQA A-Level Photography specification. This is a stimulating and popular course, which focuses on the further development of our student's artistic abilities, encouraging research made into photographers and other creative practices to act as the starting points for sustained artistic explorations with a focus on personal lines of enquiry.
How will I be assessed?
The A-Level consists of two components:
Component 1: A Personal Investigation
Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes.
96 marks - 60% of A-Level
Component 2: Externally-Set Assignment
A question paper will be provided by the examining body. The paper will consist of a choice of eight questions to be used as starting points, students are required to investigate their starting point during a preparatory period. Following the preparatory period, students must produce outcomes in a 15 hours exam.
96 marks - 40% of A-Level
What resources do I need?
Students are not required to purchase a camera for this course as we have many available to loan, along with other photographic equipment.
Will I go on any trips?
Students studying Photography will have the opportunity to visit exhibitions and partake in workshops, they will also have the opportunity to exhibit their work in a professional gallery. During the course it is vital for students to visit galleries and exhibitions, so that they may broaden their understanding of photographic art in context and the demands of professional practice.
What careers could this lead on to?
A high proportion of students go on to continue their photography studies, either at university or on foundation courses.
A qualification in Photography can lead to courses in higher education including; Art and Design Foundation, Graphic Design, Fine Art, Illustration, Printmaking, Computer Graphics and Architecture. The coursework produced will provide the basis of portfolios to show evidence of their creative skills to prospective employers, colleges and universities.
What grades do I need for this course?
An Average Point Score of a 4 is needed. A GCSE in Art or Photography are ideal background subjects, but other creative subjects such as Graphics or Textiles are acceptable, providing you have the desire to produce high quality work.
