Graphic Communication A-Level

Graphic Communication is a subject that requires the development of many skills. As well as a good eye for design, you will need problem-solving skills, a willingness to experiment with both handmade and digital image making techniques, creative ability, patience and an interest in how visual media can influence society.

To succeed in this course you must be very creative, able to explore and manipulate a wide variety of materials and media, and also have a high level of self-motivation. A significant level of literacy and analytical skills is also required in order to cope with the demands of self-expression and critical analysis that are an integral part of this course.

During the course you will build up a practical portfolio of work, which can be used to support applications for work or for higher education programmes. There are a wide range of university courses available in art and design, including specialist courses in graphic communication/design, typography, illustration, digital photography, architecture, animation, game design, web design and advertising, all of which will directly prepare you for careers in the creative industry. This subject combines well with AS/A level Art & Design, ICT & Photography.

You will be able to make full use of the excellent facilities and equipment available to you. You will be well informed of both current and historically significant artists and designers through lecture presentations and you will be encouraged to use the substantial range of graphic design books and magazines available in the library.

You will be introduced to digital and hand crafted illustrative, typographic and layout techniques through guided workshops.

You will have access to the Adobe Creative Cloud (including Lightroom), scanners, high-spec digital cameras, photography studios, extensive art materials and high quality printing free of charge. We have a range of guest speakers visit, such as freelance illustrators, GFSmith Paper Company, street artists and print specialists. There are a variety of visits during the academic year to the Tate modern, V & A, Notting Hill Brand Museum and a paper mill, where you will get to make own paper.

Some of our subjects are subject to standard entry requirement and some have additional requirements. Please see below:

Subject specific entry requirements

• 5 in an Art Design subject (a portfolio of previous work may also be requested)

Standard entry requirements

• At least five GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English Language and Maths (one Vocational or Technical qualification at Merit or above may be counted)

AND

• At least grade 4 (or Merit for Vocational or Technical qualifications) in any subject(s) that you have taken at GCSE and wish to continue studying at Level 3

AND

• Average GCSE (best 8) of at least 4 (38 on the old points table)

AND

• Grade 4 (or Merit), at least, in any subject previously studied
• Students will take either 3 A-Level subjects or 1 Diploma subject with 1 A-Level