The creative arts are at the forefront of British economic growth. The understanding engendered through studying art, design and photography at QMC equips young people with a visual literacy which enriches their lives and their cognition, whilst the skills they learn prepare them for higher level study or employment. We have access to a wealth of industry standard equipment and resources and benefit from excellent relationships with universities, artists and designers who support our students progressing into successful careers within the arts

Art, Craft & Design is a multi-disciplinary course which involves working with a wide variety of techniques and processes. In the first year, the course expands and develops students’ practical skills, knowledge and understanding of materials. Students will learn a wide variety of drawing, printmaking, craft and textile techniques and will create exciting contemporary artwork in two and three dimensions. You will also be introduced to ceramics to create sculptural artworks and functional interior products. This is ideal if you want to explore processes and techniques from across the department. We also explore digital applications and the use of photography for visual recording.

The second year the course seeks to build on the knowledge gained during the first year and develop the ability to work independently through sustained investigations, development of ideas and in depth analysis. Most importantly, students will be able to continue to work in a multidisciplinary way, or choose more specialist areas of study which reflect their own strengths and interests.

You do not need to have studied Art GCSE to enrol on this course but if has, it is recommended that you have a grade 4 or above. Being open to experimentation and trying new things, as well as having a creative outlook and a willingness to work hard is highly valued.

Art, Craft & Design develops drawing, printmaking, mixed media and design skills and is good for entry onto any creative or Art & Design based degree course. Typical career options include architecture, fine art, illustration, textile design, interiors, fashion design, fashion promotion and three-dimensional design, including jewellery, costume and theatre.

Students have gone on to study degrees at institutions including Central St Martins, Royal College of Art, London College of Fashion, Royal School of Needlework, UCA (Farnham, Epsom), UAL (Kingston, Camberwell), Manchester Metropolitan, Bournemouth, Falmouth, Brighton, Winchester and UWE (Bristol).

There are 4 assessment objectives which assess how students: develop ideas in response to contextual references, explore a variety of media, record observations, develop ideas and produce final outcomes and evaluations.

Assessment is 60% portfolio and 40% externally set assignment.

Portfolio Component: Work for this component requires students to research, analyse and establish coherent and sustainable links between their understanding of their own emerging art and design practice with that of historical and contemporary references. This study is practical project developed from a theme of the students own choosing, reflecting their interest. A contextual 1,000 word essay is submitted in support of this practical work. The aim of this component is to develop students’ ability to respond creatively to their research and visual resources. Students will also be required to successfully resolve their project into an appropriate outcome of their choice.

Externally Set Assignment Component: The externally set assignment will represent the culmination of the course. Students will be given a preparatory period during which they will develop ideas relating to their chosen question. They will also be able to creatively explore relevant techniques and processes/ after this, students will produce their own final work over a 15 hour timed period.

The studio fee of £50 per year covers most of the materials that students will require. There will be the opportunity to take part in a residential cultural trip to Venice.

During your time in Art, Craft & Design you will be given the opportunity to go on trips to galleries and locations to enhance your experience through looking at the work others and engaging in practical activities away from the classroom. We believe that these experiences are vital to your development as an artist and would urge you to take these opportunities whenever you can. To see more photos from our trips please look on our Instagram page.

One of the key experiences we offer is our annual trip to Venice at the start of the second year. The students who come with us get an amazing experience and come back having developed their practice and understanding and with a body of work which really pushes them forward as photographers and artists. Below is a sample of just some of the work produced during or as a result of this trip.

As well as the work you produce for your A level, you will be given opportunities to enter local and national competitions and engage in projects outside of your normal studies. We regularly have talks from universities, artists and companies to give you a broader understanding of future options and if you decide to pursue Art past A level, we will work with you to put together your portfolio and prepare for interviews.

We also offer enrichments within the art department, such as Professional Art Practice, to help develop your skills and give you a broader experience which will benefit your future ambitions. To learn more, please have a look at our enrichments guide.