Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
You will have a keen interest in all aspects of photography from film photography to digital and social media photography. Students taking this subject have access to a professionally equipped studio, darkroom and the use of bookable industry standard equipment to fully realise their creative potential.
The course involves a variety of practical, theoretical and historical perspectives relating to photography as art, communication and illustration. Both analogue and digital photography are taught on this course. We cover many types of photography from documentary, portraiture, studio and pinhole whilst experimenting with lighting and location shooting.
You will also exhibit work and critique with your peers.
Topics may include:
- Lense-less photography
- Skills in exposure theory
- Studio lighting
- Medium/large format techniques
- Composition
- Processing and printing in the darkroom
- Scanning and manipulating images in photoshop on Apple Mac computers
- Presentation techniques
- Digital photography.
A materials and studio fee is collected when you enrol and there are additional costs if you take part in residential trips. These can be purchased/paid for via the College online store when you enrol.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is practical on this qualification. There is a 15-hour practical exam at the end of year two.
Progression Options
The wide use of creative skills are transferable to many qualifications which makes progression accessible and broad. You will be able to pursue higher education opportunities in a plethora of sectors. You can also pursue a higher education route at University Centre Somerset.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range including English.
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.
