Art
Examination Board: AQA
Course Title: GCSE Art, Craft & Design
Why should I choose to study Art?
Students considering art as an option need to be hardworking and demonstrate an ability and interest at Key stage 3. If you enjoy a creative challenge, have a passion for responding to the world around you and enjoy exploring new media, techniques and processes then this is the course for you.
What will I learn?
The ethos of the CDS Art Department is to give students the skills necessary to create, evaluate and ultimately appreciate artworks from all cultures and of all styles. Students will learn to observe and respond to their own surroundings through their own first hand observations, as well as investigating the work and culture of others. Whether students are working in clay or collage we believe that true creativity is seen when students first acquire skills and then gain the confidence to apply those skills using their imagination.
What will be expected of me?
Students will be encouraged to express ideas, thoughts and feelings through the realisation of ideas and intentions, exploring in context and to conduct evaluations. The essence of the course is to be able to develop an idea from its initial source through to a final response. Students will be expected to document their ideas and experiments in a sketchbook relating their own ideas to the work of others through visual and written means.
What skills will I develop?
Initially there will be a reinforcement of basic skills and an introduction to new techniques as well as learning about influential artists. Throughout the course each student will have the chance to develop their skills on a wide range of media, processes and techniques. It is essential that students develop their observational skills, conduct research and investigation to inform their own ideas. Students must be prepared to work out of their comfort zone in order to explore alternative working methods and practices.
How will I be assessed?
A student’s coursework portfolio forms 60% of their overall mark. This portfolio will comprise of one exploratory unit and one extended project. The examination project forms the final 40% of the grade. The exam requires you to select and develop a body of work over time before producing a final piece in a 10 hour practical examination.
Where will this qualification lead me?
The creative industries of the world look to the UK for its inspiration and skills. We at CDS have a long history in sending our most able students to art colleges and universities throughout the country. After GCSEs many of our students will apply to the University of the Creative Arts Canterbury BTEC Art and Design course Level 3, before going on to a degree course.
