Art

The Department

At George Stephenson High School Art and Design is studied in a vibrant environment where a wide range of learning experiences cater to the needs of all. Two enthusiastic staff supported by a qualified technician deliver creative courses through out the age ranges.

Key Stage 3

Year 7

The Elements of Art:

• drawing techniques and color theory;
• graphics and communications;
• introduction to mono printing.

Year 8

The Elements of Art:

• drawing and painting techiques in mixed media;
• contextual studies.

Year 9

The Elements of Art:

• Cubism and still life
• portraiture
• contextual Studies

Key Stage 4

ART & DESIGN BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE

We offer a broad and balanced Art & Design course at KS4.

The Level 2 BTEC First Certificate course is a primary course but it is possible to progress to a higher level through the BTEC First Diploma. Both courses are 2 year duration. Edexcel is our awarding body.

Level 2 First Certificate consists of :

UNIT 1 : 2-D and 3-D Visual Communication
UNIT 2 : Contextual References in Art & Design

In addition, Students study one specialism where they have the opportunity for sustained, in-depth exploration of a chosen field.

The vocational context of the qualification is provided through project briefs and assignments. These are both stimulating and motivating to encourage enthusiastic exploration of the students' ideas. All of the assignments are practical; some written work is also involved.

The BTEC First Diploma

This course follows the first 2 units of the Certificate Level course, plus two additional mandatory units :

UNIT 3 : Explore and Develop Art & Design Ideas;

UNIT 4 : Produce an Art & Design outcome;
In additional, there is one specialist area specialist area of study

During the course, candidates must show that they can:

• understand how ideas can be communicated using mark-making and making skills 
•  be able to use formal elements, materials and techniques
• know the influences of historical and contemporary art and design developments
• understand historical and contemporary references to support their research and development of their own response
• be able to present information about the work studied in an appropriate format 
•  Know how to develop ideas and final outcomes to meet design briefs by selecting appropriate materials and techniques
• be able to use studio materials and techniques
• follow a project through, from understanding a design brief, through research and development of their ideas to a final presentation
  

Key Stage 5

Art AS and A level GCE

A Level Art is useful in a very wide range of career possibilities where visual and practical creative skills are necessary. There are many opportunities for future study at Further Education Colleges and Universities in areas of Art and Design such as, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Three Dimensional Design, Textiles, Ceramics, Fashion, Jewellery, Photography, Video, Interior Design, TelevisionlTheatre Set Design, Display, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Conservation of Artefacts, Art Therapy and Art Education.

What must I have studied before starting the course?

You must have achieved at least 5 grades A* - C at GCSE and expected to have achieved a grade B in GCSE Art before beginning the A Level course.

What will I learn about?

In Year 12 you will follow a course of combined practical and critical study using a variety of media and processes. You will be encouraged and guided to research and develop your own ideas:

Unit 1 -  A coursework assignment in a range of 2D and 3D media;
Unit 2 -  A coursework assignment in any medium you choose;
Unit 3 -  A controlled test assignment set by the Examining Board in any medium you choose.

In Year 13 you will build upon the level of skills, knowledge and understanding developed in Year 12:

Unit 4   -   A coursework assignment in any medium you choose;
Unit 5/6  -  Either an illustrated personal study on a chosen area of critical       and historical studies; in art or a further unit of coursework which will contain a written element;
Unit 7 - A controlled test assignment set by the Examining Board in any medium you choose.

Each unit is assessed by a display of the completed assignment, including preparation and developmental work.

In Units 1, 2, 4 and 5 you will develop your own personal responses to starting points which may be set by you teacher, or by yourself, with the teacher's approval. In Units 3 and 7 the starting points are set by the Examining Board. For further information, please talk to your Art Teacher.

Art Department Staff

Mr A Chalmers

Miss H Wheatley