Art and Design GCSE Level 1/2

Applications Open: 12th December 2025

Applications Close: 30th January 2026

Entry Requirements: Grade requirements: A minimum of 48 points from your best 8 GCSE grades with no less than a Grade 5 in all subjects taken. Certain subjects have additional specific entry requirements. Information on these can be found in the online prospectus.

How to apply: Applications should be made directly to the School via Applicaa which will be available from the Sixth Form area of the School's website.

https://twgsb.org.uk/sixth-form/sixth-form-admissions/applying-to-twgsb6

Please DO NOT apply via Kent Choices.

We aim to encourage a lasting enjoyment of art and design by looking, exploring ideas and experimenting with a variety of media. Students use a full range of media, skills nd techniques in well-equiped studios and have the opportunity to work individually and imaginatively. The GCSE course teaches students all the basic skills: therefore it is not essential to be skilled in all aspects at the end of Year 9. However, students succeed at GCSE if they show considerable enthusiasm and a willingness to learn in this exciting and innnovative subject.

AQA Art and Design course

Coursework – 60%
Students submit a portfolio of work which demonstrates an ability to sustain work from initial starting points or project briefs to the realisation of intentions. They include evidence of research, the development of ideas and meaningful links with critical and contextual studies.

The relationship between the process and the outcome is presented in such forms as sketchbooks, design sheets, diaries, journals and Virtual sketchbooks.

Models, maquettes, prototype, sculptures, ceramic forms and photographic records of such outcomes as transient constructions, and site installations.

Other media used include drawing, painting, print making, mixed media, ICT, textiles and collage.

Examination – 40%
Students choose one title from an externally given paper. They complete a series of preparatory work culminating in a ten-hour sustained and focused examination.



Students are encouraged to develop as independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds. They become confident at taking risks and learning from their mistakes when exploring and experimenting with ideas, materials, tools and techniques including, when appropriate traditional and new media and technologies.

Any student wishing to take any career in the arts would find this course beneficial, as it will greatly improve their creative abilities. Students can go on to study Art and Design at A Level, which leads to creative degree courses and foundation courses.

You could take this course to prepare for advanced level courses such as an A/AS Level in Art and Design or you may need to strengthen your grades by completing a foundation or intermediate vocational qualification. With further training, you could go into a job related to art and design such as an Architect, Interior Designer or Art Teacher. You could also go straight into employment and do further training or part time study with the support of your employer.