Graphic Design (Graphics) A Level

Applications Open: - 26th November 2025

Applications Close: - 16th January 2026

Entry Requirements: - Each course has its own entry requirements, please see course descriptions or the prospectus for details.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

PLEASE PICK THREE COURSES AND ONE RESERVE

THE FOCUS ON THE FIRST YEAR IS ON EXPERIMENTATION WITH MEDIA AND THE EXPLORATION OF IDEAS, WHILE THE SECOND YEAR IS FOCUSED MORE TOWARDS THE REALISATION OF IDEAS AND THE REFINEMENT OF SKILLS.

UNIT 1: PERSONAL INVESTIGATION (60%) You will generate and develop ideas, research primary and contextual sources, record practical and written observations, experiment with media and processes, and refine ideas towards producing personal resolved outcomes. Your Personal Investigation incorporates three major elements: supporting studies, practical work, and a Personal Study. Your supporting studies and practical work will comprise a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points (agreed by your teacher). The Personal Study is evidenced through critical written communication (1000 to 3000 words of continuous prose), which may contain integrated images.

UNIT 2: EXTERNALLY SET ASSIGNMENT (40%) The Externally Set Assignment (exam paper) is released in Februaryfrom AQA and contains a theme and suggested starting points. You will follow the same process as the Personal Investigation and create preparatory studies and then, around April time, have a 15 hour period of sustained focus to produce your final outcome(s).

5 GCSE grades at 4 and above including a 5 in an Art subject. If you are opting for a different specialism to your GCSE a portfolio and meeting will be required.

It could lead onto Higher Education courses. With further training, you could go into employment related to art and design such as a graphic designer, illustrator, advertising or animator. You could also go straight into employment, as these are recognised qualifications that will encourage you to explore your creative mind and help you develop the basic skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.