The Photography Department
We are a very successful department that thrives on new challenges, discovering contemporary and innovative artists/photographers and practising a wide variety of techniques.
We have two Art professionals that bring to the department a plethora of skills, experience and enthusiasm. We have three specialist Art rooms and one Year 12/13 private Art/Photography study area with a photographic studio and a Mac computer suite. The department prides itself on offering an excellent array of student experiences, including gallery visits and workshops.
Our Vision
The Photography Department strongly believes in the value of the visual arts for every student. We strive to boost self-esteem and encourage creative thinking. We motivate, inspire and challenge students of all levels. We develop students’ visual and communicative skills, enabling them to express themselves through a visual language. We nurture students to become well rounded, independent and imaginative individuals.
Our Aim
We aim to provide every student with a broad knowledge of photography and understanding of contemporary and historical photographers within the context of art history. We continue to raise the profile of Art and Photography and extend the ‘reach’ of the Art and Photography Department within the School and local community.
We aim to ensure that all students:
- produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their experiences
- evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design
- know about great photographers, artists, craft makers and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms
Photography
Entry requirements: A portfolio of work needs to be submitted before entry onto the course
Content
Alongside the practical expertise you’ll develop in your studies, you will also learn transferable skills valued in both higher education and the world of work. The analytical and creative problem solving elements of the course will support you in a range of subjects. Photography also teaches you how to learn from your experiences and work independently – skills valued by employers and higher education institutions alike.
• Component 1 – Personal investigation. 60% of total A Level mark
Students conduct a personal investigation based on an idea, issue or theme supported by written material. This will include written and practical elements. A Barcelona Trip at Easter is available.
• Component 2 – Externally set assignment. 40% of total A Level mark
Students select a starting point from eight questions set by AQA and preparatory work will take place between February and May. Students undertake 15 hours of unaided/ supervised time.
Assessment
Students are required to participate actively in their course of study, recognising and developing their own strengths and sustaining their own lines of enquiry. Students are expected to complete independent research, record, photograph, experiment, evaluate and modify ideas to extend thinking and inform their own artwork. All work presented for assessment must show coverage of each of the four Assessment Objectives. Each component is externally moderated in June
Career Opportunities
Once you have built up a good portfolio of work you will be ready to develop your art studies further. Many students go on to do a one year foundation course at Art College. Further photography study at degree level could lead to a wide range of exciting careers from advertising to fashion photography and from commercial photography to photo journalism. If you have any questions about the course please look at the examination board website – www.aqa.org.uk – or contact a member of the Art Department.
Art & Photography Exhibition Photos 2022
Art & Photography Exhibition Photos 2019
Art & Photography Exhibition Photos 2018