Course information
Art, Craft and Design (Photography)
Mayfield Grammar School, Gravesend - Kent
01474352896
Pelham Road, Gravesend, DA11 0JE
Course summary

The Photography A level consists of 4 units of work which comprise a portfolio of Personal Investigation (60%) and an Externally Set Assignment (40%). Students will follow the July induction session with a summer project on the theme ‘Sense of Place’ which develops the skills learnt at GCSE and will culminate in an early October outcome. The first term is dedicated to artist inspired photographic developments where students will draw inspiration from a selection of artists and photographers in order to inform their own responses to the starting theme. A focus on a student selected title encourages students to work independently and produce a series of photos from a personal perspective. Students pursue an independent direction which is documented through their journal and culminates in a series of outcomes, both digital and in the Darkroom. The second unit in Year 12 will be set by subject staff in January and will complete in June. Students begin preparatory studies with work from observation and develop ideas towards a timed assessment in May. Students research relevant artists and photographers, experiment with their own digital photos as well as a substantial amount of time dedicated to developing a series of prints using manual cameras and Darkroom developing, in order to develop work to show sequential thinking and evidence of self-review. The artist research element requires students to be critical in their analysis of Artwork and Photography, and to show a deep understanding of context. Students participate in group critiques, mini presentations and peer and self-assessment activities. Students show increased independence and the benefit of their earlier experience as they embark on the final unit of their portfolio from July. This self-directed, self-titled final project, is an exploration that runs concurrently with the writing of a written Personal Study. This extended essay demonstrates a high level of critical analysis and is closely linked to the ongoing practical investigation. The Externally Set Assignment paper is issued in early February and forms the final 40% of the A level qualification. Students develop personal work from the externally set theme demonstrating the knowledge, understanding and skills that they have developed over the course. The A level concludes with the 15 hour timed assessment which takes place in early May where students will have full access to the Darkroom to develop their photos. Note; this course is not designed with Graphic Design or digital editing through Photoshop. It is a contextual based, traditional film method Photography course. Students will be able to take digital photos and edit photos on their own devices throughout the course however.

Entry requirements

How you'll be assessed

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityKent
Ofsted RatingOutstanding
Gender TypeGirls
AddressPelham Road, Gravesend, DA11 0JE