GCSE Art, Design & Craft

• Unit 1: 60% of final grade: Students prepare a portfolio of coursework showing evidence of independent and classroom studies.
• Unit 2: 40% of final grade: Externally set task shown as a final piece with preparatory independent and classroom studies.

KS4 Art, Design & Craft provides students with the opportunities to develop their technical skills using a range of media and materials.

Students have the opportunity to explore and evaluate their own creative ideas developing practical skills in drawing, painting, printing, textiles, 3D work and digital art.

In their artist’s research, students learn about the work of professional artists to enhance their knowledge and understanding of a range of styles and movements.

At Sirius Academy West, we celebrate the success of our students by displaying their artwork around the academy to be enjoyed by our wider school community.

While you might have heard that becoming an architect, fine artist, sculptor or gallery assistant is an option for those who study Art or Design, there are many other careers available for those who are able to envision, design and create beautiful things.

Whether you love graphic design, drawing, painting or any other art-related speciality, career options are limited only by your imagination. Art education propels people towards creative and unexpected destinations – many of which have not even been discovered yet!

Possible careers include:  Accessory designer, Advertising designer, Animator, Architect, Art administrator, Artisan, Arts administration, Ceramics artist, Chief creative officer, Colourist, Concept Artist, Curator, Design director, Design strategist, Fashion designer, Fine artist, Floral designer, Graphic designer, Hairstylist, Illustrator, Tattoo artist, Interior designer, Jewellery designer, Make-up artist, Marine designer, Media designer, Photographer, Photojournalist, Potter, Production designer, Sculptor, Set decorator, Set dresser, Teacher, Textile Designer and Web designer to name but a few.

Students who study Art and design subjects are taught to think creatively and “outside the box”, this can be applied to other subjects to generate unique viewpoints and solutions to problems. They are taught to think critically and identify area for self-development. They are taught analytical skills which can be applied to a range of different subjects. Students also enhance technical skills which can be used to help support the study of a range of different subjects.