Graphics A Level (S9406)

3 A Level Programme

Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)

Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.

You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

4 A level programme

If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.

Please note that A Plus is designed for applicants to academic courses at Oxford, Cambridge or other Russel Group universities. Grades in vocational subjects cannot replace GCSE's for entry to this programme.

Vocational programmes

Minimum of five grade 4 at GCSE (or old grade C) or Merit/Distinction in a relevant BTEC First Diploma (or equivalent) plus 1 grade 4 (or old grade 4) at GCSE. You must also study English Language and/or Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

Level 2 programme

Minimum of three grade 4 at GCSE (or old Grade C).

This programme is designed for those students who just miss our entry requirements for level 3 study. It includes an opportunity to improve your GCSE English Language and Maths grades, alongside a Workskills course to develop the skills required for progression into employment or onto a level 3 programme.

Graphics gives you the opportunity to learn and use a range of visual language skills using digital and hand-drawn techniques. You learn the elements of effective design by working to a series of set briefs and your own personal projects. As the course progresses, you will develop a thorough grounding in the fundamentals of design and gain confidence in the use of techniques before going on to explore your own identity and areas of interest. In the first year, you will learn how to keep a sketchbook and document a development of ideas. You will learn how to develop a critical and analytical understanding of historical and contemporary design and how this can inspire and influence your work. You will also learn how to experiment and take risks with typography, illustration and imagery and how to apply these to advertisements, branding or campaigns. In the second year, you will develop a personal project through independent study, lessons and tutorials and write a 1,000-3,000 word critical assignment linked to your personal project that will focus on an element of design that interests you. We take opportunities wherever possible for you to view a range of work from various artists both locally and nationally.

If you’re interested in applying to study a degree level graphics course, there will be one to one portfolio sessions that will help you select the best work to show at interviews. Norwich University of the Arts also come in to discuss portfolios and interviews to ensure that you are well prepared for your next step. Graphic Communication will appeal to you if you want to express your creativity in ways that can be applied to the worlds of advertising, illustration and typography. This subject will also appeal to you if you’re considering degree level courses or careers in these areas. Graphics can be studied alongside any of our art based A Level subjects as well as alongside any other Paston College A Level subjects.

You will be assessed through a variety of coursework and will be asked to complete preparatory studies to complete a finished piece of work completed under exam conditions.

3 A Level Programme

Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)

Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.

You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.

Please note that A Plus is designed for applicants to academic courses at Oxford, Cambridge or other Russel Group universities. Grades in vocational subjects cannot replace GCSE's for entry to this programme.

This course helps you to prepare for the next step in your creative career. Many students go directly on to degree courses at a wide range of universities and/or art schools to study Graphics and/or other visual art disciplines.