Graphic Design & Communication (A-Level)

A-Level

Studying a creative A level is both challenging and hugely rewarding. Whether choosing to study A level Graphic Communication with the intention of progressing to an art and design degree course and a career in the creative industries or choosing to study the subject to broaden their A level programme, students will find that studying a creative A level subject will develop a range of subject specific and widely sort after transferable skills. Graphic design is central to the operation of all companies and responsible for how they connect to their world audiences through visual communication strategies, the creation of graphic products (e.g., packaging, adverts, printed publications such as magazines and brochures) and a range of digital content.If you aspire to work in a graphic design / visual communication related field such as design for print or web design, in television or advertising, animation or Illustration then studying this A level will open the relevant doors to higher study. To succeed on the course students will typically relish working with new ideas and creative challenges.

Outline

This course allows students the opportunity to explore a range of graphics disciplines including typographic manipulation, illustration, printmaking, logo and brand identity design, packaging, digital imaging and animation. We actively promote an experimental approach to developing ideas and creating work whether using digital techniques and Adobe software (e.g., Photoshop In-Design and Illustrator) or hand rendered techniques. We want students to be ambitious, inventive, motivated and above all creative. The course is mostly practical, supported by contextual enquiry to broaden students’ knowledge base and understanding. It is split into two elements, Personal Investigation (which involves the development of a personalised portfolio and related outcomes supported by a short, written essay) and Externally Set Assignment (which involves the development of ideas from initial research which are then refined into final outcomes based on a set theme). The Personal Investigation element is worth 60% of the overall grade and the Externally Set Assignment the remaining 40%.The first year focuses on building knowledge, understanding and practical skills through working on teacher set themes and mini assignment briefs. The second year becomes more focused on each student’s personal creative journey and the development of their personal ideas.All work is externally moderated to ensure fairness of assessment and that national standards are maintained.You can follow us on:Instagram: @pendletonschoolofcreativeartsTwitter: @creativeartspen

Entry Requirements

Students will need a minimum of five grade 5’s or above, including English Language and Mathematics. In addition, students must have a GCSE (or equivalent) in a creative subject area such as Art, Textiles, or Creative Media.

Students without a previous qualification in Art and Design must attend a Pendleton Sixth Form College masterclass, where staff will discuss further study choices and assess the student’s suitability for the course.

*Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

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Name

Avaialble At

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Academic Yr

25/26

Name

Graphic Design & Communication (A-Level) (Level 3)

Available At

Pendleton Sixth Form College

Start Date

02/09/2025

Fee

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