A level Photography

There are a number of specific subject entry requirements, please visit our website to review the courses and entry requirements or alternatively please contact the Sixth Form for specific details.

*Please choose 3 subject courses from different blocks, you will automatically be added to Maths or English resit classes on enrolment if you do not achieve required 4 in Maths or English Lit/Lang but you must still meet requirements for entry per subject.

Edexcel A Level 9PYO
QAN Code: 601/4958/9

What will I study?
Students explore a range of approaches, working with signs, symbols and images and understanding artistic conventions, such as portrait, landscape and movement. Students study the role and function of photography (e.g. graphics, fashion and documentary); develop a range of techniques (e.g. control of shutter speed and use of aperture); learn to use different lighting conditions, pictorial space, scale and structure and use digital imagery and software to manipulate and refine images.

HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED?
Assessment is judged by a combination of 2 components, component 1 personal investigation and component 2 Externally Set Assignment.
Coursework consists of a personal investigation, where through year 1 students will explore a range of techniques, develop a broad range of skills, refine and record ideas and present a personal response. Students will also research photographers and their work, reflecting on work critically with written analysis.
Through the second year students will continue to produce a portfolio of coursework, together with a related personal study of up to 3000 words. This places students work within an historical and/or contemporary context and must be in an essay format. Coursework counts for 60% of students A level, with 12% of marks given to the essay.
During the second year students will also complete an exam, Externally Set Assignment (ESA). This component is worth 40% of their A level. It requires students to produce preparatory studies and
personal outcome(s) based on a theme set by Edexcel. The theme will be released to students in February of their final year. Students will have 15 hours to produce their personal outcome or outcomes.

What will I need to study this course?
This course will suit students who are creative and imaginative. Subject requirements are a grade 5 or above at GCSE Art and Design or by portfolio.

Where next?
The course can lead either to employment, apprenticeships or Higher Education courses in art or non-related courses.