A2 Art and Design (Photography)

What do I need to have studied/have knowledge of?

To do Photography A level at Commonweal School it will be an advantage to have studied a Visual Art for GCSE. This is not a requirement. 

You should be passionate about visual arts and want to explore outcomes with an inquisitive mindset and openness to experiment and take risks.  

You will be expected to show a portfolio at interview- this could be an area of interest visually.  

What will I learn on this course?

Some students will have a visual understanding from GCSE visual arts or are developing a passion for recording the world around them through a lens.  

We want students to have the control of the camera to realise their intentions.  

Exploring keys elements, composition, lighting, shutter speed, and ISO.  

Having knowledge of a digital world but also analogue awareness. We will hand manipulate outcomes. Some students will want a career in being an artist with a focus on Photography, some will want to work collaboratively through film, media and graphics, we will prepare them for this.  

Through topics such as Objects, Portriats and Sense of place.  

Students will also have contextual knowledge and exposure- through galley visits and guest speakers and photoshoots.  

The insight students explore through photography will prepare them for exploring a world with emotional intelligence and confidence. 

How will I be assessed?

This A Level is a two-year course assessed using the same four Assessment Objectives as the AQA GCSE Photography course- Develop, Refine, Record and Present. 

The course comprises of two externally assessed components which are- The Personal Investigation (60%) and an Externally Set Assignment (40%) – the first of which starts around the February in Yr 12 and continues into Yr 13.  This gives students a chance to explore and develop their skills during Yr 12, whilst refining and presenting a real focused personal line of investigation that will be completed into Yr 13.  All work made throughout the course will be presented in a portfolio that will be needed for entry to further education.

What could this course lead to?

The expert training you will receive will equip you to progress to higher education courses at Colleges or Universities, or to enter employment within the creative industries. 

Career options could include Fine Artist, Gallery Curator, Graphic Design, Marketing, Magazine design and production, Fashion Photography, sports, documentary photography, photojournalism and involvement in film production.  

Additional events, trips or enrichment activities

We aim to provide all students numerous opportunities to visit galleries and exhibitions throughout the course. We have previously enjoyed fantastic days in London, visiting the Royal Academy and Tate Modern, catching the tube and exploring the sights and tastes of Borough Market. Students will also experience photoshoots and location visits and visiting artists.  

Are there any additional costs for this course?

Expectation is that students have their own camera and lens, but we do have some equipment students can borrow. There may be printing costs, depending on the student’s needs. The start of the course will be working digitally.  

Any visits to galleries, exhibitions or the residential trip will also have an additional fee. 

Who do I contact if I have any further questions?

Mr Sanghera, Head of Photography (asanghera@commonweal.co.uk)

Curriculum Maps

Curriculum Maps - Photography Year 12

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