Creative Arts

AQA 8205

“I liked the practicality of the subject learning through hands-on experience with different materials and developing new techniques. It helped me decide to study the BTEC at Sixth Form and choose architecture to study as a degree.”

3D Design is a creative approach to design and technology, where you can develop your skills in architecture, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, interior design, and designs for theatre and film. In addition to practical design work, you are expected to develop ideas and demonstrate strong analytical and critical understanding by investigating the work of other designers.

You will have access to well-equipped workshops featuring both traditional and modern machinery, including drills, sanders, a 3D digital printer, laser cutters, and digital design software.

Topics Include:

• Architectural & Environmental Design
• Ceramics & Sculpture
• Jewellery & Product Design
• Theatre, Film & TV Set Design
• 3D Digital Design

AQA 8201

“GCSE gave me the foundational knowledge to develop my ideas independently, study an art-based subject in Sixth Form and follow my arts education.” 

Highly practical and individualised, the GCSE in Art, Craft and Design develops and nurtures your artistic talent. You will experiment with a wide range of media, materials, and processes, exploring both traditional and contemporary techniques such as fine art painting, printmaking, craft, illustration, digital drawing, and design.

Pursue your passions in our bright, airy, and well-resourced art rooms and studios, supported by a dedicated team of teachers and technicians.

Topics Include:

• Drawing & Painting
• Sculpture & Installation
• Photography & Moving Image
• Mixed Media & Printmaking

BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award – Pearson

“The BTEC introduced me to an entirely new skill set for perceiving multiple aspects of the world within certain industries, everything is done in a certain way, which was hand-picked to communicate a message, and honestly just made me fall in love with the subject.” 

A vocational course that will teach you about genre, narrative and representation through studying media products such as film, magazines, newspapers, websites and games.

You can develop sector-specific knowledge and skills in a practical learning environment using our brand-new suite of digital media computers.

Topics Include:

• Genre & Representation
• Analysing Pre- and Post-2000 Media
• Creating Digital Media Products

AQA

3D Design is a creative, design-led approach to design technology. You will carry out your own practical investigation into an idea, concept, or theme by experimenting with a variety of 3D media, materials, and processes, exploring both traditional and contemporary techniques.

Topics include:

• Developing ideas through sustained and focused visual investigations, informed by contextual sources, and demonstrating analytical and critical understanding.
• Experimenting with a range of 3D media, materials, and processes, exploring both traditional and modern techniques, while continuously reviewing and refining your work.
• Visually recording observations, critically reflecting on your process, and developing your work as it progresses.
• Presenting a personal, informed, and meaningful response that makes connections between visual and conceptual elements.

AQA

“Studying a variety of Creative Arts subjects at QE encouraged me to develop my self-expression and creativity. My teachers were very supportive and boosted my confidence, and helped me to develop as an artist and a person.”

Designed to follow the GCSE course, this advanced art course allows you to progress, experiment, and explore a range of 2D and 3D media, processes, and techniques. Integral to the investigation and creation process, you will take inspiration from images, artefacts, and resources related to art, craft, and design.

Topics include:

• Practical Physical and Digital Art
• Self-Directed Work Based on an Idea, Issue, Concept, or Theme

Level 3 540 Diploma and Extended Diploma – Pearson

The BTEC Art and Design Practice has been developed in collaboration with experts from the creative arts industries to focus on practical, progression-focused learning. You will complete a variety of practical projects, briefs, and industry-led workshops to build a portfolio of work ready for progression to further studies in the arts, or directly into a career or apprenticeship.

Topics include:

• Fine Art / Illustration
• Fashion
• 3D Design

Level 3 National 540 Diploma and Extended Diploma – Pearson

Explore a broad range of creative media specialisms and purposes by focusing on one module – Exploring and Developing Creative Media Skills. You will look at ways of informing ideas, understanding and developing solutions to creative challenges.

Topics Include:

• Developing Technical and Communication Skills
• Exploring Various Practices such as moving image, text, sound, lens and graphics

AQA

“Studying Textiles at QE allowed me to experiment with new and different techniques such as combining ceramics and fabrics together, mixing media and taking my knowledge to the next level.”

A Level Textiles allows you to respond to the visual world in a creative way through hands-on making, while exploring a variety of exciting textile design techniques. You will have the opportunity to direct your work towards fashion, textiles, theatrical costume, or interior design.

Topics include:

• Developing ideas through sustained and focused visual investigations
• Experimenting with a range of textile and fashion media
• Visually recording observations, critically reflecting, and developing your work

AQA

“Studying Creative Arts helped me a lot throughout my years at QE. My teachers gave me guidance with my portfolio and personal statement to help me gain a place at my first-choice university.”

Learn a variety of creative photography techniques and processes, and experiment with ways of combining media and ideas. Our team of supportive teachers offers practical advice and guidance to help you develop an original and individual response to themes and artists.

Topics include:

• Use of camera equipment
• Darkroom techniques
• Studio work
• Computer software and presentation skills
• Building a portfolio and a digital sketchbook of creative ideas and personal project work