A LEVEL EDEXCEL 9PY0

WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?

Students will need to have studied an art or design based course at GCSE and achieved a Grade 5 or above. Students should have also experienced working with different artistic methods and show a passion for photography.

WHAT WILL I DO?

This course allows students to explore a diverse range of photographic techniques, ideas and images relevant to the art of photography. You will have the opportunity to experience traditional and experimental photographic techniques through digital photography, film and video. It enables students to become independent with their photographic practice and allows them to make their own discoveries by exploring the work of master photographers, embedding these in their own work. Photography is a practical course in which students learn by doing, so they will be able to create imaginative personal work. Students will develop their creativity and independent thought whilst learning to express themselves visually.

WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?

Anyone with an interest in photography and a passion for creative expression. The course is particularly suited to students who enjoy exploring photographic techniques, developing original ideas and working independently. Students will complete a two-year A Level qualification consisting of a Personal Investigation and an Externally Set Assignment.

COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS

The A Level Photography qualification consists of two components:

Component 1 – Personal Investigation

Students develop an independent body of practical photographic work based on a personal theme or starting point. They explore and experiment with a range of photographic techniques, processes and approaches, investigating the work of relevant photographers and artists to inform and develop their own ideas.

This component also includes a written study of at least 1,000 words, supporting and explaining the ideas, research and creative decisions behind their practical work.

Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment

Students respond to an externally set theme or starting point provided by the exam board. They develop their ideas through research, experimentation and preparation before producing a final photographic outcome during 15 hours of supervised practical work.

ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK

Students will receive regular feedback through individual tutorials, group critiques and discussions about their developing photographic work. Opportunities for self-assessment and peer feedback will encourage students to reflect on their progress and refine their ideas. Assessment is based on four Assessment Objectives, with students demonstrating their ability to develop ideas, experiment with photographic techniques, record observations and present personal outcomes.

The four Assessment Objectives focus on:

• AO1 – Develop: Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and critical understanding.
• AO2 – Explore: Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes, reviewing and refining ideas as work develops.
• AO3 – Record: Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions, reflecting critically on work and progress.
• AO4 – Present: Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and demonstrates understanding of visual language.

The Personal Investigation also includes a written study of at least 1,000 words. The Externally Set Assignment concludes with 15 hours of supervised practical work.

PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?

A Level Photography builds on the creative skills, knowledge and understanding developed at GCSE. At the end of the A Level course, you will have the skills, knowledge and understanding needed for higher education.

Possible options include:

• Art foundation course
• Art, design, graphics, architecture, fashion, product design and media-based degrees
• Apprenticeships
• Careers as a photographer, artist, designer, product designer, video game designer, animator, gallery curator – endless possibilities.

The course provides an excellent foundation for students wishing to pursue further study or a career in the creative industries.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Students will need to have studied an art or design based course at GCSE and achieved a Grade 5 or above.