Creative and Media Studio School

View navigation

Creative and Media Studio School uses cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. For optimal performance please accept cookies. For more information please visit our cookies policy.

Accept and close

Creative and Media Studio School

Graphic Design

Website Icons 20222

When you judge a book by its cover, choose a product because you have seen the ad, instantly recognise a company by its logo, or go to an exhibition after seeing a poster, then you are responding to visual messages – this is what graphic communication is all about.

Why study Graphic Communication?

Book covers, magazine spreads, advertising, brand logos, product packaging, animation, websites, film and television all rely on graphic communication to express ideas and communicate powerful and persuasive messages or information visually, using a combination of image, typography and layout. Targeting the audience to whom the messages and ideas are directed helps designers choose the appropriate approach, style or medium in order to maximise their impact.

With the explosion of digital media and the growing demand for designers and illustrators in this sector as well as the wider commercial world, learning Graphic Communication is a key asset.


Which syllabus do we follow?

The Creative & Media Studio School follows the AQA specification for A level Graphic Communication.


What is the course about?

The Graphic Design team believe people need the basic skills taught in the correct way to enable a successful two years at the college – “intro to digital” is the perfect starting point to underpin all Adobe Photoshop / Illustrator/ InDesign /After Effects programs, these are building blocks for the next two years.

Stage 1 – personal investigation

This is a practical investigation supported by written material. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student’s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation. The investigation must show clear development from initial intentions to the final outcome or outcomes. It must include evidence of the student’s ability to research and develop ideas and relate their work in meaningful ways to relevant critical/contextual materials. The investigation must be informed by an aspect of contemporary or past practice of artists, photographers, designers or craftspeople.

Stage 2 - Externally set assignment

Separate question papers will be provided for each title. Each question paper will consist of a choice of eight questions to be used as starting points. Students are required to select one. Students will be provided with examination papers in February of year two. 
Preparatory period – from 1 February
Supervised time – 15 hours


Assessment

Component 1: Personal investigation
No time limit
96 marks
60% of A-level

Component 2: Externally set assignment
Preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time
96 marks
40% of A-level


Specific Entry Requirements

Students applying for A Level Graphic Communication should achieve at the very least a Level 4 in English Language, Maths and 3 other GCSE subjects. Students invited for interview will be asked to prepare a portfolio of creative work showcasing your talent and individuality. This work will be assessed by the subject specialist as part of the interview process and will contribute to the decision of an offer being made.


Would You Like To Find Out More?

Maybe you have a question about the different range of units you can study? Or maybe you want a bit more info on the resources? Whatever your question, the Tutors are more than happy to answer any that you have. Get in touch and we’ll get back to you with all the answers.


Download : 

GRAPHIC DESIGN 

Netherhall Learning CampusRawthorpe St James CofE (VC)Infant & Nursery SchoolNetherhall Learning Campus Junior SchoolNetherhall High SchoolThe Creative & Media Studio School