Art

Why study Art? 

Our aim is to simultaneously combine creativity with enjoyment. Pupils studying Art should want to experience a wide range of materials and should take a natural interest in the way that artists and designers work. Studying Art at this level is a great way to understand and develop skills in independent learning, allowing for more personal ideas to be explored. Pupils can expect to benefit from their own material kit, personal choice of subject matter and individual guidance towards both 2D and 3D responses. 

GCSE Art will develop knowledge and skills. This subject offers a chance to express creativity and imagination. Learning is guided by teachers, who have been trained by OCR, to suit pupils’ particular skills and interests. It is 100% practical and can bring balance to a very ‘factual’ timetable. The course concludes before study leave begins in Year 11 and the Grammar School provides all materials, including folders, boards and canvases. If pupils are wanting to pursue an art-related career, it is a great place to start. 

Pupils are either entered for OCR’s Fine Art GCSE or OCR’s Art, Craft and Design GCSE. The courses have identical assessment criteria, but are designed to suit strengths in either 3D, 2D or mixed media forms of Art and Design. A willingness to continue study outside of lessons is a prerequisite. Pupils can also opt to have more time on their GCSE work on a Thursday afternoon for enrichment. However, Art cannot be taken as an extra GCSE during this time. 

GCSE Structure 

60% of GCSE – Coursework Portfolio – Marked out of 120 

One practical portfolio on a self-selected theme is submitted. This element does not contain a timed element. (September, Year 10 – December, Year 11) 

40% of GCSE – Externally Set Task – Marked out of 80 

A second practical project is submitted on a theme that is selected from a range of stimuli produced by the exam board. The themes are released in January, and the project concludes with a 10-hour assessment, usually completed over two consecutive school days. This is not a final exam, rather, it is a timed piece of independent work. The whole project is marked, including all preparation work. (January, Year 11 – April, Year 11) 

Subject Enrichment 

Gallery visits – Yorkshire Sculpture Park, London, Leicester, Loughborough | Visiting artists for workshops | Annual School exhibition National competitions | After school support clinics and lunchtime Art clubs | Bronze and Silver Arts Award