A level Photography

What will I be doing?

This course has four main areas of focus:

  • Recording: extending your photography skills
  • Contextual Research: extending your knowledge of photographers and creating reference pages
  • Experimenting: with a range of techniques
  • Developing your ideas: creating a range of conclusions

Exam/coursework breakdown:

Personal Investigation (60% of the total A level)

Learners should produce two elements:

  • A portfolio of practical work showing their personal response to either a starting point, brief, scenario or stimulus, devised and provided by the learner or centre.
  • A related study: an extended response of a guided minimum of 1000 words.

Externally set task (40% of the total A level)

The early release paper will be issued on 1st February and will provided learners with a number of themes, each with a range of written and visual starting points, briefs and stimuli. A response should be based on one of these options. 15 hour controlled-time (exam).

Entry requirements

B Grade in GCSE Photography. C/4 grade applicants will be considered on an individual basis. Grade C/4 in English is also recommended.

Progression possibilities

Students can progress to BTEC qualifications or further studies at degree level.

Pathways for learners at a range of levels, helping you shape but not limit your potential future choices in Higher Education and employment."