Art and Design (Photography)

Course summary

Photography presents a stimulating and rewarding opportunity for pupils to develop a broad range of lens-based media to express personal ideas. Pupils are introduced to technical camera skills, digital image editing techniques and darkroom practice, which are developed in response to a given theme. Coursework allows the pupil to construct a portfolio, which demonstrates their ability to express ideas effectively, meaningfully and personally, selecting appropriate media to visualise an idea. Creative tasks are initially approached as a group in order to embed practical skills and develop a critical approach. Contextual studies of relevant photographers and artists inform the pupil of creative practices that stimulate thinking, encouraging them to make connections to visual elements. Crucially pupils are encouraged to consider their own approaches and personal interests to express an idea as this lays the foundation for greater independence of thinking and practice. The second part of the course involves the Externally Set Assignment in which the pupil selects from a range of themes set by AQA Exam Board. This assignment provides a rich opportunity for pupils to become more self-directed in their studies, making use of tutorial support in order to bring their ideas into being.