A Level Art and Design - Fine Art

Applications Open - 1st November 2026

Applications Close - 12th February 2027

Entry Requirements - Please refer to the Sixth Form Course Directory via the website www.knoleacademy.org

Option blocks and detailed subject information can be found in our course directory on our website www.knoleacademy.org

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login

Level 3 Courses - select a minimum of 3 courses to study

Level 2 Courses - select 1 course only as each course is studied on a full time basis.

This qualification gives a clear introduction to the study of Fine Art. Students explore a wide range of artistic media, processes and techniques while developing their ability to investigate, experiment and communicate ideas through visual language.

This course has been designed for Post 16 Fine Art students who are passionate about art and enjoy developing their own visual language, while gaining an understanding of both historical and contemporary artistic practice. It will prepare candidates to progress into further or higher education, to follow courses and careers in a broad range of art and design disciplines

Skills building workshops:

Students take part in a series of skills-based workshops to develop their fine art skills. They are encouraged to explore a broad range of media, techniques and processes in preparation for component 1.

Component 1: Personal investigation

This is a practical investigation supported by written material.

Students conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation is identified independently by the student and leads to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes.

The investigation is an 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. They will research and develop ideas and relate their work in meaningful ways to relevant critical/contextual materials, being informed by an aspect of contemporary or past practice of artists, photographers, designers or craftspeople

Component 2: Externally set assignment

Preparatory period – from 1 February in year 13

Following receipt of the paper students should consider the starting points and select one. Preparatory work should be presented in any suitable format, such as mounted sheets, design sheets, sketchbooks, workbooks, journals, models and maquettes.

Supervised time – 15 hours

Following the preparatory period, students have 15 hours of unaided, supervised time in which to produce a finished outcome/s informed by their preparatory work.

A LEVEL ASSESSMENT:

Year 1 and Year 2

60% - Personal Investigation

40% - Externally set assignment.

Entry Requirements

Minimum of 5 9-5 grades in GCSE examinations including English and Maths.

• Foundation Diploma in Art &

• Design

• BA (Hons) Fine Art

• BA (Hons) History of Art

• BA (Hons) Illustration

• An Art based apprenticeship

• Fine Artist

• Art Therapist

• Art Teacher

• Concept Artist