A-Level

Photography

Photography

Entry Criteria

Five GCSEs

Grade 5

Careers

A-Level Photography complements many other areas of the curriculum, from Art and Drama to D&T, English, and the Social Sciences; many of our students go onto study a range of degrees at further education. Possible careers that lead on from an A-Level in Photography include: TV and film camera operator, freelance photographer, video editor, TV/film production runner, graphic/product designer, art editor, medical illustrator, advertising art director, illustrator, desktop publishing/magazine design, photographic editor, press photographer, art therapist, digital marketer, media planner, multimedia specialist, museum/gallery curator, stylist, VFX artist, visual merchandiser, web content manager, web designer, and many more. 

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Course ID
AQA 7206
Faculty
Expressive Arts
Department
Photography
Level
A-Level
Head of Faculty
K. Eustace
Head of Department
C. Zane
Availability
Currently Studied, Offered Next Academic Year (subject to enrolment numbers)
Photography

Course Overview

A-Level Photography is a thrilling, creative journey that immerses students in the art of visual storytelling over two years. Our course equips students with a wide range of techniques and skills, from mastering traditional darkroom processes to exploring the cutting-edge possibilities of Photoshop. With an extensive variety of resources at their disposal, students learn to communicate powerful ideas and emotions through imagery, developing a sophisticated understanding of photographic principles.

Throughout the course, students experience regular assessments after each major project, ensuring that they progress confidently in skills like experimental techniques, presentation, and editing. In their first year, students explore how to draw inspiration from both primary and secondary research, translating these insights into thoughtful, creative responses to set briefs. By the second year, they are ready to take on a more independent approach, selecting their own topic and producing an in-depth, personal project that showcases their unique style. This culminating project is celebrated with a Photography Exhibition at school, where students proudly present their work.

Our Photography course fosters a culture of high expectations, inspiring students to think deeply and independently about the power of visual imagery. Alongside digital photography, students have opportunities to experiment with film cameras, video, 3D work, laser cutting, and more, allowing them to push the boundaries of self-expression and gain hands-on experience across various mediums. With the guidance of passionate instructors, students not only refine their technical expertise but also build the confidence to tackle a world increasingly influenced by visual media and creative storytelling.

Course Content

Year 12

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 Myself Project. Photograms board and book hand in.
Autumn 2 Portraiture. Portraiture board and book hand in.
Spring 1 Landscapes. Landscapes board and book hand in.
Spring 2 Experimentation. Experimentation board and book hand in.
Summer 1 Start of A2 (7206/C) – Landscape or Portraiture. Research.
Summer 2 Start of A2 (7206/C) – Landscape or Portraiture. Photoshoots relating to research.

 

Year 13

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 7206/C – Landscape or Portraiture. Research and photoshoots.
Autumn 2 7206/C – Landscape or Portraiture. 2 Final Board hand in and book.
2000-3000-word essay.
2 Final Boards related to essay.
Spring 1 7206/X – externally set assignment. Research and photoshoots for exam.
Spring 2 7206/X – externally set assignment. EXAMINATION; Photoshoots, development of ideas, experimentation.
Summer 1 7206/X – externally set assignment. 15 hour examination.
4 Final Boards and book hand in.
Summer 2 N/A N/A

 

Extended Learning

Year 12

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
AQA Specification     Drone, Video, Stop Motion, 3D work, Modelling, Laser Cutting, 3D Printer, Lithophone, Film.

 

Year 13

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
AQA Specification     Drone, Video, Stop Motion, 3D work, Modelling, Laser Cutting, 3D Printer, Lithophone, Film.