A Level in Art (Fine Art)

For an A Level programme of study, we require students to have a range of at least five to seven GCSE passes at grade 5 or higher, including a minimum of a 4 in English and Mathematics, but students must also satisfy the minimum entry criteria for A Level Art and Design below.

• Grade 4 in a GCSE Art and Design subject

or

• Merit in Level 2 Art and Design

For those who have not previously studied a GCSE in Art and Design or Textiles or Graphics, or an equivalent Level 2 course, it is still possible to be considered for this A Level Art course.

During the interview, you will be asked to bring examples of your work. This could be a portfolio, a sketchbook or even just images of the types of things you have worked on previously

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.

Fine Art can lead to many creative careers including Graphic Design, Photography, Illustration, Architecture, Product Design, Web Design, Fashion and Textiles.

This subject can also lead to History of Art and museum/exhibition careers.

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.

As part of this course you will be able to visit 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.

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.