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Fine Art

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

Students are introduced to a variety of experiences through a wide range of media, processes and techniques. Students will be made aware of both traditional and new media, exploring the use of drawing for different purposes, using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales. Students use sketchbooks to underpin their work, exploring relevant images, artefacts and resources. Students’ responses to these examples are shown through practical and critical activities which demonstrate their understanding of different styles, genres and periods of art history.

More on this course

Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of Fine Art.

They explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas:

  • Drawing and painting
  • Mixed media including collage and assemblage
  • Sculpture
  • Ceramics
  • Installation
  • Printmaking (relief, intaglio, screen processes and lithography)
  • Moving image
  • Photography

Teaching and learning methods

Students are given a range of set themes as starting points which encourages the development of individual ideas informed though the study of art history and contemporary artists. Students are expected to create final outcomes at the end of each project which support sketchbooks documenting their creative journeys.

Skills-based teaching in drawing, printing, mixed media, photography and painting take place alongside the development of projects which extend students’ ability to analyse art. Students take part in small group workshops, individual tutorials, class critiques throughout the course as well as being offered opportunities to attend gallery visits and a range of art trips.

Assessment

Component 1 (60% of final mark): Students develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements make connections with contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographer(s) or craftspeople and include written work of 1000 – 3000 words which supports the practical work, a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes.

Component 2 Externally Set Task (40% of final mark): Students respond to a stimulus, provided by AQA, to produce work which provides evidence of their ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Fine Art nurtures creativity, technical skills, and artistic expression, allowing you to experiment with a wide range of mediums such as painting, sculpture, and printmaking. You’ll develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to communicate ideas visually. These skills are highly valued in careers such as fine artist, illustrator, curator, art therapist, and graphic designer, as well as in industries like advertising, animation, and fashion. Whether you dream of becoming a professional artist or pursuing a career in the creative industries, A Level Fine Art offers a strong foundation for an expressive and diverse career path.

Subject Combination

We recommend that students take no more than two visual arts subjects (Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography, Art, Craft and Design, Fashion and Textiles) as we encourage a broad curriculum. Other subjects that combine well with Fine Art include Media Studies, Film Studies, Games Development, English Literature, History, and Business Studies.

Graphic Design

Art, Craft and Design

Photography

Fashion and Textiles

Media Studies

Film Studies

English Literature

Business

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I enjoy fine art as the course allows you to experiment with several different methods and processes, ranging from digital to practical outcomes. I am planning on pursuing a degree in Film and Television Production, and taking fine art has supplied me with concepts and ideas that can be applied to any creative subject. My teachers break down the creative process and you can explore your strengths and weaknesses through experimentation in the mini projects. I’ve had the chance to volunteer in the Dead Dog Gallery and also take part in the artist-in- residence work experience that helped build more confidence, along with the trip to the Baltic in Newcastle.

Maryam Parks

Former DSFC Student from St Leonard’s Catholic School

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

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