History of Art

Course summary

The History of Art A Level is a two year course, which allows our girls to develop a wide skills set, preparing them very effectively for university and beyond; art history’s inter-disciplinary benefits are key to this. This course develops students’ understanding of the relationship between society and art; art historical terms, concepts and issues; the influence of cultural, social and political factors, as well as developments in materials, techniques and processes of both art and architecture over time. The inclusion of specified artists and a selection of works from beyond the European tradition provides clear guidance on areas of study and reflects the need for an appropriate global specification in our modern world. In addition to gaining a cohesive and cumulative knowledge of influential art movements, candidates develop many highly valued transferable skills including visual literacy, analytical thinking, evaluation, research and debate, as well as constructing relevant, concise and thoroughly evidenced arguments. Over the two-year course, students will develop the skills and understanding to enjoy a lifetime of access to, and appreciation of, the culture, heritage and ideas of the world around them.