A Level in Art (Fine Art)

General entry requirements:

To study this A Level, you’ll need a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4 or above across your top six subjects with at least a grade 5 or above in Maths and English Language or Literature.

Please note: your GPA average can include English and Maths.



Subject-specific entry requirements:

To study Fine Art, a grade 4 or above in GCSE Art and Design, or a Merit in Level 2 Art and Design would be advantageous. Alternatively, a portfolio of work can be brought to your interview if you haven’t previously studied Art and Design.

In the second year of study you will explore an extended personal investigation that will require you to develop an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by a written piece of work, which will count for 60 per cent of your A Level mark.

The final examination at the end of your second year will require you to produce personal work which will count for 40 per cent of your A Level mark.

By the end of your course, a diverse range of progression paths will be open to you such as a degree, a high-level apprenticeship or an entry level role in the industry.

This course is perfect for those who wish to pursue a degree-level course in areas such as Graphic Design, Photography, Architecture, Web Design, Fashion and Textiles. This subject can also lead to History of Art and museum/exhibition careers.

Many of our A Level learners progressed into university. Sophie studied A Levels in Sociology, Psychology and Criminology and progressed to Canterbury Christ Church University to study Social Science. She commented: “I really enjoyed the flexibility of A Levels at College. I’d give my College experience a 10 out of 10. I think it’s so inclusive and supportive.”

There are no fees for this course if you are under 18.

If you are aged 19 or above, please contact us for more information about fees and funding.

Throughout the year, you will take part in regular trips, visiting galleries in London such as Tate Britain, Tate Modern, The National Gallery, Saatchi Gallery and Whitechapel Gallery. You will also explore local exhibitions including the Turner Contemporary, as well as project-specific locations that support the research and development of your work.

You can benefit from guest speakers who are practising artists and BA degree students. As well as having various opportunities to visit universities and attend progression and career fairs hosted by the College.

Choosing EKC Canterbury College for sixth form also means you will be part of the thriving Students’ Union. The Students’ Union (SU) are a group of students dedicated to representing your voice, organising events, and running campaigns to enhance College life. They are also responsible for the College’s clubs and societies, and organise a wide range of exciting trips and events.

The basic requirement is for students to buy an A3 coursework sketchbook for the first day and to have some pencils and paints available for homework. They will also need an A1 Portfolio by the end of the first term.

What subjects are commonly studied with Fine Art?

Fine Art can compliment other creative A Level subjects such as Textiles, Graphics and Photography.

Fine Art and a Maths or Physics combination can establish a pathway to a career in architecture.

It is also an excellent subject to study alongside History, Classics, English Literature or Drama, as you can combine your interests in these subjects and apply them to your Fine Art Projects.