Photography A Level

Applications Open: Friday 15th October 2026

Applications Close: Friday 9th July 2027

Entry Requirements: Our general entry requirements are:-

• A Levels – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• BTEC Level 3 – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 4+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• T Level - technical course, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics.

• BTEC Level 2 – One year programme, which could lead on to further studies, with an average entry requirement at least five grade 2 or above, including English and mathematics.

How to Apply: Please apply via Kent Choices

The AQA A Level Art and Design (Photography) course aims to cultivate students' visual and technical abilities, fostering their creativity, independence, and personal expression through the lens. It encourages students to engage in a comprehensive creative process, from generating ideas and experimenting with diverse photographic media and techniques—such as digital photography, traditional darkroom processes, studio lighting, image manipulation, and moving image—to critically analysing their own work and the broader visual world. A key focus is developing visual literacy and understanding how photography reflects historical, social, and cultural contexts, ultimately enabling students to communicate their unique artistic visions effectively.

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60% of A-Level)

A student-led practical project based on a theme, idea, or concept of your choice.

Must be supported by research into relevant historical and contemporary artists, including non-European examples.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40% of A-Level)

You choose one starting point from a list of eight provided by the exam board.

You are given a preparatory period to research and develop your ideas for this theme.

Overall Skills Developed

Across both components, you will develop practical art skills, research abilities, critical analysis, and an understanding of art history.

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60% of A-Level)

Requires a written essay of 1,000–3,000 words that connects your research to your practical work.

Your entire process from start to finish must be documented (e.g., in a sketchbook).

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40% of A-Level)

The final artwork is created in a 15-hour supervised exam.

At least a 5 in Art or Photography GCSE.

An AQA A Level in Photography offers a versatile foundation for a wide array of future careers, not only within the creative industries but also in fields that value its transferable skills. A-Level Photography will support students to progress to higher education and apprenticeships. This A-Level prepares you for roles such as a professional photographer, photojournalist, fashion stylist, picture editor, animator, or cinematographer. More importantly, it cultivates essential skills like creativity, visual literacy, technical proficiency, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These highly sought-after abilities are applicable to numerous other sectors, including marketing, media, publishing, e-commerce, and advertising, making photography a robust and adaptable starting point for many professional journeys.