Fine Art GCSE

Exam Board: AQA

The world is directly affected by our visual culture. Art is no longer just about drawing and painting. It encompasses a huge range of approaches and materials. Every person is creative and within the Art Department we aim to nurture the style particular to each student.

The Fine Art course actively engages students in their own learning. Students are encouraged to work independently and, wherever possible, from direct observation. This broad course seeks to acknowledge students’ interests, aspirations, aptitudes and culture by providing opportunities for the development of their creative, imaginative and critical abilities. Students are introduced to a variety of two and three dimensional experiences: employing a range of media, processes and techniques as a basis for their expressive, design, and critical ability. This could include drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, graphics, photography, and printmaking.

Students are helped to develop their individual creativity, to make informed judgements about their work; as well as the inspiration that they can take from other artists, designers and crafts persons.

• Coursework: This is a body of work completed throughout Year 10 and the first term of Year 11. It consists of 3 projects showing a range of techniques. Much of the preparation for a project is completed in A3 sketchbooks which students need to purchase from the school shop. Funding is available for those who need it. • Exam: A ten week preparation period and a ten hour final practical sat in the art rooms over two days.

How the course is assessed

60 % Coursework completed in Year 10 and the first term of Year 11.

40% Exam. Paper distributed in January leading to a ten hour test in April of Year 11.

Suitable Candidates

This course would suit any student who enjoys art. Students need to have an open mindset and enjoy learning new techniques.The Fine Art course demands a home learning commitment of between one and two hours a week. Students are encouraged to use the studios at lunch times or after school.

Post 16 Progression Routes

GCSE Art is a pre-requisite for A Level Art. Further studies may lead on to a career in: Film, Television, Theatre, the Media, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Fashion, Illustration, Jewellery Design, Animation, Ceramics, Photography, Gallery and Museum Work, Exhibition Work, Teaching, Garden Design

Student Comments

“I like Art at Dorothy Stringer because it provides a positive environment in which you can improve current skills and develop new ones”

“Art is good because there isn’t a correct answer; you get to make the answer”