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A Level Art and Design in Farnham – Farnham College

CostFree if you're eligible
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Activate Learning lists a fee of £2,581 if you're not eligible. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Activate Learning for more info.

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About this course

GCE A Level in Art and Design course in Farnham. Classes run at Farnham College, full-time during the day, over two years. You'll work across a range of media, develop your own artistic ideas, and study the work of other artists through discussion and experimentation. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, Maths, and Art. Assessment is mainly coursework, with some externally set tasks. The level 3 GCE A Level in Art and Design qualification is awarded by AQA.

Who this course is for

Art offers a unique way to observe the world. It allows you to put your own ideas and experiences into action by using a variety of media. Throughout this two year course, you will learn a range of skills and methods, and experiment with different personal approaches. You will also find out about the work of other artists, whilst developing your skills and interests through discussion with your teacher. Assessment is mainly by coursework with some externally set tasks. This subject is both enjoyable and challenging and covers a range of learning methods to include practical work, educational visits, research and presentations. We have impressive records of success, with many students gaining good grades. Students' achievements are widely recognised and celebrated through displays around the College. A high proportion of students progress onto Art related courses. Modules include: Developing art and design skills Creative project Practical research project Developing a portfolio Materials, techniques, and processes Idea development and concepts in art and design All 16-19 year olds on full-time programmes will be required to retake GCSE English and Maths or to undertake Functional Skills, if they have not already attained the equivalent of a GCSE grade C in these subjects, every year of their course, until they complete their studies. Those who want to explore their creativity, develop new skills and investigate the work of other artists. An enjoyable and challenging subject, which boasts high achievement rates and the opportunity to learn in specially designed art and design studios.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths and Art.

What you will learn

  • You'll experiment with a variety of media and materials to develop your personal artistic style.
  • You'll build skills in observation, composition, and visual communication.
  • You'll research and analyse the work of other artists to inform your own practice.
  • You'll develop and refine ideas through sketchbooks, preparatory work, and finished pieces.
  • You'll respond to externally set briefs under timed conditions.
  • You'll reflect on and discuss your creative decisions with your teacher.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based studio sessions, combining practical making with research and critical discussion. Most of your mark comes from coursework: a portfolio of work built up over the two years. There is also an externally set task, which includes a preparation period followed by a supervised timed response. Your teacher will guide your development through regular feedback and discussion.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Farnham College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and media
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital platforms
  • Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or fine art photography
  • Art technician: support studio and gallery environments in schools or colleges
  • Textile designer: design patterns and materials for fashion or interiors
  • Animator: create moving image content for film, TV, or games
  • Set designer: design environments for theatre, film, or television

What you could study next

A GCE A Level in Art and Design qualification opens the door to higher education in creative subjects. You could apply for a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3), which many art schools use as a bridge into degree study. From there, a BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related discipline is the natural next step. Some learners also pursue Higher National Certificates (HNC) or Higher National Diplomas (HND) in Art and Design as a more vocational route into the creative industries.

Apply on farnham.activatelearning.ac.uk →
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