Fine Art

What is A-Level Fine Art?

In Fine Art A-Level, you will explore a wide range of artistic techniques, materials, and concepts. The course encourages you to develop your own ideas through practical work and critical thinking.

You will study areas such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and mixed media, while also learning how to research and respond to the work of other artists. The emphasis is on creativity, experimentation, and personal expression.

You will build a portfolio that showcases your development and complete a personal investigation, which includes both practical outcomes and a written element exploring your chosen theme.

What Will You Study in A-Level Fine Art?

During the Fine Art A-Level programme, you’ll build a diverse portfolio that showcases your skills across various mediums and techniques. The course encourages experimentation and creativity, allowing you to explore different styles and processes.

Key areas of study include:

Drawing with pencil, charcoal, and graphite
Painting with oils, watercolours, and acrylics
Various printmaking techniques, such as mono printing, lino printing, and etching
Mixed media approaches, including collage and emulsion printing

This range of techniques helps you develop a well-rounded and expressive artistic portfolio.

What Next after Completing A-Level Fine Art?

After completing the Fine Art A-Level programme, many students decide to further their studies with a year-long Art Foundation course, such as the one offered at our college. This prepares them for degree-level education in the arts.

Graduates have successfully progressed to prestigious institutions like Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), the University of Leeds, and Central Saint Martins in London.

Alternatively, students have also directly entered degree courses in:

Fine Art & Architecture at MMU
Architecture at Newcastle University and University College London (UCL)
Printed Textiles at Bath Spa University
Automotive Design at Aston University

What is the Exam Board for A-Level Fine Art?

The A-Level Fine Art course is assessed by the AQA exam board, with the qualification divided into two main components:

Component 1: Personal study, including an illustrated essay, contributing 60% of the final grade.
Component 2: An externally set assignment, accounting for 40% of the grade. This includes a preparatory period followed by 15 hours of supervised work under exam conditions.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level Fine Art?

To enrol in the Fine Art A-Level course, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above. This includes a grade 5 in GCSE Art.

Creative subjects such as Textiles, Graphic Design, and Resistant Materials may also be considered. If you’re applying via this route, you’ll be asked to attend an interview and present a portfolio of your work.

If you’re interested in combining A-Levels with a BTEC qualification, our Mixed Programme may be the right fit. There is the opportunity to study this programme, even if you’re not on track to achieve five grade 5s.

What other subjects go well with this subject?

Fine Art pairs well with a variety of subjects, depending on your interests and career goals. Popular combinations include Photography, Graphics, Textiles, and 3D Design for those pursuing creative careers. English Literature and Media Studies can support the development of analytical and contextual understanding, while subjects like History, Psychology, and Sociology can inspire ideas and themes for personal projects. Students interested in architecture often choose to study Maths or Physics alongside Fine Art.

What Enrichment is on offer in this subject?

As part of the Fine Art A Level course, students have the opportunity to take part in a variety of enrichment activities, including gallery and museum visits, and trips to degree shows and cultural events. These experiences help broaden creative thinking and offer inspiration for personal projects. Students are also encouraged to enter competitions and showcase their work in exhibitions, building confidence and professional experience.

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