Course Overview
Please note:
you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
Art & Design A Level is a creative and thought-provoking course that encourages you to explore, experiment, and express ideas through a range of artistic processes, while also developing strong academic and analytical skills. It’s designed for students who are curious, imaginative, and ready to take their art seriously, both practically and intellectually.
You’ll be encouraged to investigate visual culture, research independently, and respond to complex themes through your own creative work. Critical thinking, reflective practice, and creative problem-solving are at the heart of the course, helping you grow as both an artist and a thinker.
Our experienced and supportive staff will help you build confidence in your technical skills, while also deepening your understanding of the context behind your work. You’ll learn how to communicate your ideas visually and through writing, refine your creative voice, and develop a portfolio that prepares you for further study or a future in the creative industries.
Topics may include:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
- Digital art.
A materials fee is payable at enrolment. Optional residential trips may incur additional costs, which can be paid through the College’s online store.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is continuous and includes coursework, project work, written research, and practical applications. Your final A Level grade is based on two components:
- Personal Investigation: An in-depth project developed from your own creative ideas, supported by technical exploration and an extended written element.
- Externally Set Assignment: A themed practical project issued by the exam board, culminating in a timed practical exam and final exhibition.
Final work is assessed both internally and by an external examiner.
Progression Options
Successful completion of this course can lead to further study in art and design, including:
- A Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
- Degree-level study such as BA (Hons) Fine Art, Illustration, Interior Design, Applied Arts, Art History, or Education.
Many students progress to the Foundation Diploma at University Centre Somerset to strengthen their portfolios before applying to competitive higher education courses.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including one in Art, Textiles, or Graphics. A commitment to developing your portfolio outside of lessons is highly desirable.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
