For entry into the Sixth Form to study 3 A' Levels, students are required to achieve 5 grades at 9-5 (or where applicable A*-C) including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above.

In exceptional cases, students that do not reach the entry criteria based on their attainment in English or mathematics will be admitted to the 6th form with the addition of GCSE retake classes in the appropriate subject to their timetable. This based on 6th form discretion.

While we would encourage students to study 3 A levels, in exceptional cases and following conversation at interview we may support a student to study 4. All students will have the option to study for Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A levels.

A grade 6 is recommended in any subject that a student wishes to continue at A Level. Students are welcome to discuss entry criteria for specific subjects and to ensure that their subject choices match their goals and aspirations.

Students wishing to study Mathematics require a grade 6 and in Further Maths require a Grade 7 in the subject at GCSE.

A level - Edexcel

Photography has been used by practitioners to record, document and present examples of everyday life, in ordinary and extraordinary circumstances. It has also been used as the vehicle for artistic expression, communicating personal ideas about the world around us. It is used to convey personal identity more widely than any other art form, is applied in the creative process across art, craft and design and is widely used in social, commercial and scientific contexts. The development of affordable lens-based technology has changed the way that both professionals and the public use photography.

Photography: through the disciplines of film-based photography, digital photography, film and video.

Students are required to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding to;

• record experiences and observations, undertake research
• select and organise visual information, analyse, explore relevant resources
• use knowledge and understanding of the work of others
• apply knowledge and understanding in making images
• review and modify work, organise
• select and communicate ideas,

Students should also engage with:

• the operations and principles of creating a photographic image
• a range of materials used in photography
• how the formal elements evoke responses in the viewer
• the processes for production of digital and print-based photographs
• methods of presentation of photographic images
• sustainable materials and production processes in the construction of work
• the potential of collaborative working methodologies in the creative process.

Course details:

Component 1: Personal Investigation and Personal study 60%

This component incorporates three major elements; supporting studies, practical work and a personal study. The purpose of the Personal Investigation is to develop a portfolio of practical work and a minimum 1000 words of continuous prose that shows critical understanding in relation to the practical portfolio.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 40%

This component incorporates two major elements; Preparatory studies and the 15 hour period of sustained focus. The externally set assignment should build upon the knowledge, skills and understanding gained from Component 1. The paper is set by the exam board and ideas, experimentation and development are completed in the classroom and independently, leading up to the fifteen hour exam.

Assessment

Work presented for assessment must fully cover all four assessment objectives.

Assessment Objective 1 – Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigation.

Assessment Objective 2 – Experiment with and select appropriate resources, media and materials.

Assessment Objective 3 – record in visual and/or other forms ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions.

Assessment Objective 4 – Realise intentions. Present a personal, informed and meaningful response.

To complete an A Level in this subject it is necessary to achieve a Grade 5 at GCSE, although we strongly advise that students should be looking at achieving at least a Grade 6 at GCSE to have a secure platform for entry on to the course.

Where can Photography lead you?

An obvious choice would be to follow a career path that involves a foundation degree or a degree in photography and/or other creative discipline such as Fashion Styling, Fine Art, Commercial, Graphic Design and Visual Arts leading to a variety of careers in the creative industries such as animation, film, games, photo imaging, publishing, TV, VFX, advertising and marketing communications. However, the A2 course helps you to develop intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive powers. Students who study photography have a greater awareness of environmental, cultural and political issues, so the possibilities are endless.