Thornleigh Sixth Form

During the A Level course students will build upon their knowledge, skills and techniques learnt during their GCSE Course. Students will be encouraged to explore a range of different materials, techniques and processes, both digitally and by hand, learning from the work of other Graphic Designers.

Students will be encouraged to express themselves, develop ideas and refine their use of digital editing software such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

Entry Requirements

It is preferred that students have completed a GCSE in an arts-based subject such as Graphic Communication, Art and Design, Fine Art, Photography or 3D Design. Experience of digital editing is also desirable.

What will I Study?

You will begin the course by further refining your digital editing skills and looking at the work of iconic Graphic Designers. You will learn about Typography and Colour Psychology, how to combine digital and handmade illustrations and photographs into professional quality designs.

You will be given a range of starting points, such as branding, advertising and design for print as well as developing your own ideas for logos and packaging. As the course progresses you will be increasingly expected to develop your own ideas and express yourself through your design work. The final outcomes to this course will vary from student to student.

Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?

The exam board is AQA.

CLICK HERE to access the exam board webpage for this specification.

AQA 60% coursework portfolio (extended project) and 40% exam (set by AQA 1st Feb). 15 hours controlled time April/May

Where could this subject take me?

There are so many career opportunities based around creative subjects, ranging from Graphic Designers to branding, advertising and marketing. Students may wish for careers in Graphics Design, Architecture, Interior Design, Illustration, Animation or marketing. Students may be interested in Fashion, Product Design or Theatre Design.

Studying a design subject such as this encourages students to view the world around them, appreciate other people's points of view and develop self-expression, allows the development of design skills and the ability to produce work using a variety of materials both traditional and digital.
Subject combinations

Many students who study A Level Graphic Communication also study A Level Fine Art, A Level Business Studies, and/or ALevel Photography.

How can I get ahead in this subject

Refining your understanding of digital editing, photography skills, digital drawing and photo manipulation. Being up to date with current design trends, visiting websites like www.behance.net www.thedieline.com and www.adobecreativecloud.com having a ‘daily sketchbook’ drawing lettering, logo designs etc will all help you build a broad understanding of current graphic design trends and help you develop your own ideas.