Students follow the Eduqas Art and Design (Photography) endorsement, which we believe offers the best route for all students who are interested in studying Digital Based Photography. The initial part of Year 10 course (Autumn Term) provides students with a variety of skill-based workshops, where students have the opportunity to develop their editing skills via Adobe Photoshop. In addition, the second module focuses on the Manual Mode theory, whereby students learn the camera fundamentals such as: Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO, DSLR capabilities, Lenses, Composition, Points of View and Focus Modes. Finally, the third module (Spring Term 1) explores Historical and Contemporary sources, which encourages students to take inspiration from a range of Artists, Photographers and Movements.
At the start of Spring Term 2, the Y10 students will begin their Component 1: Portfolio, where they will select a project Assignment Theme. They will then produce work in response to the theme which explores the work of other artists’ and their own ideas through a diverse range of work. They also will also explore a variety of Photography techniques, such as Double/Long Exposure and investigate studio lighting to reinforce their Photography skills.
In Year 11 students will continue to add to their Component 1 Portfolio (60% weighting); they have the option to extend their current project or begin a second one. After Christmas in Y11 students will begin Component 2 (40% weighting), where students respond to an assignment title (Externally Set). The structure of this course is similar to Component 1, as students follow the same format as the coursework project and are expected to produce practical research and experimentation in response to a starting point. This is followed by a 10-hour practical exam (over 2 days) leading to a final outcome.
Students are also able to study Textile Design and Art & Design at GCSE. These courses have a similar structure to the Photography course; each with two core components.