A Level Photography

Level: 3 | Duration: 2 Years | Details: September | Exam Board: AQA

Please note all of our A Level subjects must be studied as part of a full time A Level programme. You will choose 3 A level subjects to study over two years.

What is this course about?
A Level Photography course is designed to help students develop visual communication through conceptual and practical skills with traditional and digital technologies. The course allows students the opportunity to develop intellectual, imaginative and creative thinking whilst gaining knowledge of the processes and use of the camera in past and contemporary society.

Why choose this course?
The A-Level photography course has been commended by the examining board as being ‘one of the best structured courses in the country’ for many years. Students will be tutored by working artists.

How will I be assessed?
You will submit two coursework portfolios of work. Component 1 will also have a written element; Component 2 is an Externally Set Assignment and has a 15 hour timed focus at the end. These portfolios are assessed against four assessments objects: Develop, Explore, Record and Present. All students will be required to produce first hand coursework for each component. There are six formal assessment points throughout the year with written and verbal feedback. Informal assessment is continuous throughout the year.

Entry requirements:
A minimum of 3 x Grade 5’s and 2 x Grade 4’s at GCSE including a Grade 5 in English Language and a Grade 5 in Maths. One of your Grade 5’s must be in an Art related subject. 
Every student will also be invited to a Creative Skills and Portfolio Event where you will need to submit an appropriate portfolio. You will receive more information about this event at your college interview.

What will this course lead on to?
Students may gain entry onto a BA (Hons) degree in Photography, Art and Design, Advertising, Architecture, Fashion, Textiles, Interior Design or Teaching. Following this students could enter employment in an art-related area, such as a gallery or media environment.

Enrichment Opportunities
Students who want to study outside standard lesson times are always welcome. The Art and Design department has a library and an area for drop-in sessions outside of students timetabled hours of study. The department also run enrichments in Textiles, Art, Multimedia and Photography.

What will students learn on this course?
Students will learn modern digital processes and techniques in an experimental manner. Students will be taught how to analyse and evaluate images and how these issues relate to society, culture, and politics. Students will develop personal styles in photography and expand their visual language exploring how formal elements communicate imagery to an audience.

How will students be assessed?
Students will be required to successfully complete one coursework portfolio and a timed examination with a supporting portfolio. All students will be required to produce first-hand coursework for each component. There are six formal assessment points throughout the year with written and verbal feedback. Informal assessment is continuous throughout the year.

Are there any costs associated with this course?
We ask students to provide their own DSLR camera, although the college does have camera students can borrow to complete assignments. Students will also have to pay for printing costs (this is additional to the print budget each student receives from the college), plus costs for educational trips and visits.

Facilities:
Industry standards and classroom and computers and software as well as industry-standard cameras.

The Cronton Experience:
During your time at Cronton Sixth Form College, you will have the opportunity to take part in a number of different enrichment activities in your free time. These will increase your enjoyment of your studies and equip you for further success. Click the image below for more information!