What specification is proposed? 

AQA A-Level Art and Design (Photography) 

This course is aimed at students who are passionate about photography and lens based media. It is a complex and exciting art form. Students produce quality stimulating photographs which stand out from the mass produced images associated with social media. 

We aim to introduce students to the real core of photography. Students will explore digital and darkroom techniques and processes allowing them to develop their understanding of the key elements of photography. A good photographer needs to be able to read situations, to anticipate and to react. The course includes a strong academic element in which students are challenged to analyse and critique the work of others. 

Students will explore the different disciplines such as fine art photography, studio based still life and portraiture, film and digital photography and editing techniques. They will be encouraged to visit museums and galleries as part of their own studies with a high emphasis upon developing skills as an independent learner. 

This course provides a springboard to a wide range of possible career paths and post-18 studies. It is a fantastic time to enter the world of photography with technical advances in new software and hardware continually being unveiled alongside the resurgence of more historical photography techniques. 

What will I be covering in the course in Year 12? 

Students produce a portfolio of evidence covering a wide range of photographic disciplines, allowing them to experiment and explore a wide range of workshops that will give them essential photographic and editing skills. Students will then begin their personal investigation into a theme of their choice. 

What will I be covering in the course in Year 13? 

Component 1: 60% of qualification NEA 

During the second year students will be expected to develop a personal study in which they explore their own ideas and processes in relation to the work of other photographers. Students will be expected to produce an extended coursework folder with a supporting essay of 1000-3000 words. 

Component 2: 40% of qualification NEA 

Students receive an externally set assignment set by AQA which includes a number of questions based around a theme. Students select one question and independently produce a volume of preparatory studies. Students use this work to inform the final piece produced in a practical fifteen hour exam. 

How will I be assessed? All assessments take place in the summer of Year 13 

All components are “non-exam assessments” (NEA) assessed on the following criteria: 

  • Develop ideas through investigations informed by contextual sources 
  • Explore and select resources, media, materials, techniques and processes – refining idea development 
  • Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions 
  • Present a personal, informed and meaningful response from ideas. Make connections between visual and written elements. 

Specific entry requirements for this course 

6 in GCSE Photography 

A portfolio will be requested for external applicants and those not having previously studied the subject.