Learning
Art & Design

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The Art & Design department at The King David High School offers a dynamic and creative environment where students can develop their artistic skills, refine their ideas and explore visual culture in greater depth. 

At Sixth Form level, students are encouraged to become independent, reflective artists who can investigate, experiment and communicate ideas through a wide range of media. The course develops both technical skill and conceptual understanding, supporting students as they build a strong portfolio for progression to higher education and creative careers. 
Students are guided to develop their own creative voice through experimentation, research and critical reflection, while also studying the work of established artists and designers to inform their practice. 

 

Courses Offered 

A-Level Fine Art 

A-Level Fine Art allows students to explore a wide range of artistic processes while developing a personal and independent approach to their work. 

Students produce sustained projects that include: 

  • Drawing and observational studies 

  • Painting and mixed media work 

  • Printmaking 

  • Sculpture and 3D exploration 

  • Personal investigative projects 

  • Research into historical and contemporary artists 

Students develop their ideas through sketchbooks and project work, documenting the evolution of their creative thinking and artistic techniques. 

 

A-Level Graphic Communication 

A-Level Graphic Communication focuses on visual communication and design processes. Students explore how images, typography and layout can be used to communicate ideas effectively. 

Areas explored may include: 

  • Graphic design and visual branding 

  • Illustration 

  • Typography and layout design 

  • Digital media and image manipulation 

  • Advertising and visual communication 

Students learn to develop professional design skills while producing creative outcomes that respond to real-world design briefs. 

 

Learning and Coursework 

Sixth Form Art courses encourage students to work with increasing independence and creative freedom. 

Students will: 

  • Produce sustained practical projects exploring personal themes and ideas

  • Investigate the work of artists, designers and cultural influences 

  • Experiment with a range of materials, techniques and processes 

  • Develop and refine ideas through sketchbooks and project journals 

  • Create a portfolio of work suitable for university and creative pathways 

Sketchbooks play a central role in the course, allowing students to record research, experimentation and the development of ideas over time. 

 

Assessment 

Assessment in A-Level Art & Design is based on two components: 

  • Portfolio (60%) – a body of practical work developed throughout the course 

  • Externally Set Assignment (40%) – a final project responding to an examination theme 

Throughout the course, students receive regular feedback to support their progress and help refine both their practical work and critical understanding. 

 

Enrichment and Opportunities

Students studying Art & Design in the Sixth Form benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities designed to broaden their creative experience. 

These may include: 

  • Art clubs and creative workshops 

  • Gallery and exhibition visits 

  • Opportunities to enter external art competitions

  • Participation in student exhibitions and showcases 

Students are encouraged to share and exhibit their work, celebrating creativity and achievement within the school community. 

 

Progression and Career Pathways 

Art & Design develops a wide range of transferable skills including creativity, problem-solving, visual communication and critical thinking. 

Students who study Art & Design at A-Level often progress to courses and careers in areas such as: 

  • Fine Art 

  • Graphic Design 

  • Architecture 

  • Animation and Illustration 

  • Fashion and Textiles 

  • Photography 

  • Creative Media 

  • Teaching and education 

The department supports students in developing strong portfolios that enable progression to university courses, foundation art programmes and vocational creative pathways. 

 

Teaching Team 

Head of Department: Mrs C. Waxman 

Art Teachers 

  • Miss S. Piterman 

  • Miss G. Taylor 

  • Art Technician 

  • Miss D. Taylor