Year 12
Developing Graphic Skills
and Creative Practice
In Year 12, students build a solid foundation in both traditional and digital media techniques, developing a broad range of practical skills. The year begins with a structured workshop phase, offering hands-on experience in various processes such as digital illustration, screen printing, typography and mixed-media work. This phase helps students gain confidence in a variety of approaches, from hand-rendered techniques to industry-standard software.
Alongside these workshops, students begin their Personal Investigation. Working to a self-directed brief, learners explore an area of interest such as branding, editorial design, illustration, or product packaging. This component encourages independent research into relevant artists, designers and movements, allowing students to analyse professional practice and apply these influences to their own work. By the end of the year, students will have developed a substantial body of work that reflects both technical skill and conceptual understanding, setting the stage for advanced exploration in
Year 13.
Year 13
Personal Investigation
and Final Project
Year 13 sees students expand and refine their creative and analytical abilities through the continuation and completion of their Personal Investigation. This major project, worth 60% of the A Level, combines a 3,000-word written study with a developed body of visual work. It demands in-depth research, experimentation, and critical reflection, challenging students to produce a professional-standard portfolio that aligns with their chosen specialism.
From February, learners begin the Externally Set Assignment, where they select a brief from the exam board and respond with a fully realised piece. This component, worth 40% of the qualification, requires students to bring together all the skills, techniques and creative thinking developed throughout the course. The final outcome is supported by preparatory work and is produced under timed conditions.
By the end of Year 13, students will have assembled a diverse and sophisticated portfolio, ready for submission to higher education or to support applications for creative careers. The combination of practical expertise, independent research and critical evaluation ensures they leave the course with the skills and confidence to succeed in the competitive field of art and design.
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000
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