IB Visual Arts

Applications Open: Now

Applications Close: 27 February 2026

Entry Requirements: - 5 GCSE's 4 or above including English and Maths

How to Apply

Internal students - Please apply via Applicaa using this link - https://skinnerskentacademy.applicaa.com/year12

External students - Please apply via KentChoices using this link - https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login. Please note - after sending your application, you'll receive a welcome email from Applicaa asking for further information.

The course is a thought-provoking course in which students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking, while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers. In addition to exploring and comparing visual arts from different perspectives and in different contexts, students are expected to engage in, experiment with and critically reflect upon a wide range of contemporary practices and media. The course is designed for students who want to go on to study visual arts in higher education as well as for those who are seeking lifelong enrichment through visual arts.

The course encourages students to actively explore the visual arts within and across a variety of local, regional, national, international, and intercultural contexts. Through inquiry, investigation, reflection and creative application, Visual Arts students develop an appreciation for the expressive and aesthetic diversity in the world around them, becoming critically informed makers and consumers of visual culture. The course is delivered through the key art forms of Ceramics, Textiles and Photography.

The course consists of three sections:

1. The Comparative Study - an independent critical and contextual investigation that explores artworks, objects, and artifacts from differing cultural contexts.

2. The Process Portfolio - a documentation of the student’s artistic experience during the course, both visual and contextual.

3. The Exhibition - the student presents a body of work 8 to 11 pieces accompanied by a curatorial rationale showing critical understanding and awareness of the context of their work.

Each of the sections attracts the following proportion of marks:

1. The Comparative Study - 20% (External Assessment)

2. The Process Portfolio - 40% (External Assessment)

3. The Exhibition - 40% (Internal Assessment by teacher, external moderation by examiner.)

General Entry Requirement for The Skinners’ Kent Academy Sixth Form:

Minimum of GCSE grade 4 (G4) in English and Mathematics plus 3 other GCSEs at grades 9-4

Subject specific minimum entry requirements are:

Visual Arts: G5 or higher in English and G6 or higher in any Art & Design or Design Technology related subject.

Portfolios will also be considered.

The qualification gives a coherent introduction to the study of Visual Art, where students develop visual art pieces and gain an understanding of the creative process. They develop critical and creative writing skills; they exhibit work and develop curatorial practise. The qualification is designed for post-16 learners who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment, possibly in the creative industries.