Year 13 Art and Design students follow the Fine Art endorsement of the AQA A2 course.  Students complete one extensive coursework unit and an Externally Set Assignment. 

The theme for the coursework is self-directed and takes the form of two closely linked areas, the practical element and the personal study (an illustrated dissertation). Observation drawings inspire an extensive collection of supporting studies which explore the chosen theme and develop towards a series of two final outcomes.  Students identify their own focus from the Externally Set Assignment paper.  This unit culminates in a timed assessment. 

Students are encouraged to take responsibility for leading their own studies and gain independence as the course progresses. Sustained investigations show sequential thinking and evidence of self-review through experimental and design work. The artist research element is supported by gallery visits and requires students to be critical in their analysis of Artwork showing an understanding of context.