ART AND DESIGN (1 A-Level Equivalent or 2 A-Level Equivalent)
Course leader: Mrs R Postill
Aims of the course:
The aim of the course is to develop learners technical and conceptual skills through practical projects in art and design. They learn how to communicate their ideas visually, solving creative problems through experimenting with materials, techniques and processes. They learn how to use various tools and materials to make their ideas become a reality and they develop a portfolio of art and design projects that showcase their interests and supports their progression to higher education. Through critical and contextual studies, they learn how to research and analyse art and design works by other practitioners and how to apply their finding to their practical projects. The diploma consists of eight units, of which six are mandatory. Learners develop:
Visual recording and communication skills
Critical and contextual understanding of art and design.
They learn about materials, techniques and processes through practical vocational projects. Learners study two optional units in disciplines such as graphics, fashion, 3D design and crafts and fine art. These units provide an introduction to these sectors and, alongside Unit 5 Developing an Art and design Portfolio support and help to inform progression to higher education.
What are lessons like?
Art and Design lessons are engaging, inspiring and busy. The course is practical and therefore students will be working either in sketchbooks or completing practical outcomes using various materials, processes and techniques. Students will have the opportunity to present their work to clients in their lessons, establishing clear links between the course and the Art and Design Industry. They will be encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and they will develop essential organisation and communication skills to prepare them for Higher education and the world of work.
What are exams like?
Each external assessment for a BTEC National is linked to a specific unit. All of the units developed for external assessment are of 90 or 120 guided learning hours to allow learners to demonstrate breadth and depth of achievement. Each assessment is taken under specified conditions, then marked by Pearson and a grade awarded. Learners must achieve all external units at pass grade or above. Learners are permitted to resit any external assessment only once during their programme.
Students who choose the do either the extended certificate (1 x A-level equivalent course) or the Diploma (2 x A-level equivalent course) will take the following exam units in Year 12:
· Unit 1 Visual recording in Art and Design (External Set Task)
All learners will also undertake the following unit in year 12:
· Unit 10 Graphics Materials, Techniques and Processes
Learners studying the Diploma (2 x A-level equivalent course) will also take the following Mandatory unit in Year 12:
· Unit 4 Materials Techniques and Processes (mandatory)
and one of the following optional units:
· Unit 9 Photographic Materials, Techniques and Processes
· Unit 12 Fine Art Materials, Techniques and Processes
· Unit 13 3D Design Materials, Techniques and Processes
· Unit 14 Textiles Materials, Techniques and Processes
· Unit 15 Fashion Materials, Techniques and Processes
· Unit 16 Design Craft Materials, Techniques and Processes
In Year 13, students who study the Extended Certificate will study the following units
· Unit 2 Critical and Contextual Studies in Art and Design (External Set Task)
. Unit 3 The Creative Process (Mandatory)
In Year 13, students who study the Diploma will study the above units and the following 2 units:
· Unit 5 Developing an Art and Design Portfolio (Mandatory)
· Unit 7 Developing and Realising Creative Intentions (External Set Task)
Recommended prior learning /entry requirements:
It is advantageous that students who choose BTEC level 3 Art and Design have successfully completed a level 2 course (GCSE, BTEC Level 2) in Art and Design and/or Design and Technology. The course requires hard work and dedication throughout and students who display these attributes will be considered.
Where can this course lead to?
The qualification is intended for learners who wish to progress to further study in the creative sector. The qualification carries UCAS points and would support progression to art and design disciplines such as fine art, graphic design, fashion and textiles. Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with specific high education providers (see UCAS website for the list of all art and design related courses).
Why study BTEC Art and Design at St Mary’s College Sixth Form?
St. Mary’s College is ‘Outstanding’ and this reflects the hard work and dedication that is evidently in place for our students. The pastoral care, guidance and support is valuable in ensuring that we impact positively on every student in our care. We have a record of excellent results and we have well-equipped studios and workshop facilities. Industrial links continue to be developed with the Faculty and this provides sound knowledge, understanding and experience of the Art and Design Industry. Our tutors are experienced in a wide range of design specialist areas including Graphic design, Fashion and Textiles, Printmaking, Digital imaging, 3D Design and Fine Art.
If you would like more information on BTEC Level 3 in Art & Design, please feel free to contact Mrs Reading or Mrs Postill at the College.