A Level Photography

Studying Photography helps to develop important skills in creative thinking and problem solving. It is an artistic, creative and practical course with technical elements. Studying the world around us through photography helps students to understand and interpret media messages and motives and helps to prepare them for a wide range of future careers and courses of study.

Students are introduced to a variety of photographic media, techniques and processes and produce their own practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study according to their field(s) of interest. These may include: portraiture, landscape, still life, documentary, photojournalism, fashion, experimental imagery, multimedia, photographic installation and moving image. There are many opportunities to take part in Sixth Form trips and visits each year.

The course is assessed in two parts:

Component 1 (60%) - Personal Investigation

This is a practical investigation project that includes a 1000 word essay and the development of a personal response to the students’ own choice of theme.

Component 2 (40%) - Externally Set Task

Students will select one of a series of starting points and develop their own response. The project culminates in a 15 hour examination.

To join BG6, you must achieve five or more GCSE grades 4 or above. These must include a minimum GCSE grade 4 in English Language or Literature and Mathematics and also meet the specific subject entry requirements for courses you are interested in.

SPECIFIC SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS:

GCSE Grade 4 in English Language.

Over the two year course, students will find and develop their own style, eventually producing a portfolio of work that can be taken to interviews. All of our Arts courses are good companions to the others offered at Key Stage 5.

The kinds of personal skills that students develop are very useful in later life, whether they are employed in a career, or continuing to study at university:

Creative thinking

Reflection and critical thinking

Adaptability

Teamwork

Independent organisation and meeting deadlines