About the Course

You will learn to use professional digital camera technologies and industry standard software to produce a creative portfolio. In addition to this you will be trained to use professional studio lighting in our purpose built photography studios, where you will learn to shoot fashion, portraits, still life and advertising/editorial work.

Students will be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of photographic media, techniques and processes, including the use of both traditional and new technologies. You will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. This will be integral to the investigating and making processes. You will be encouraged to respond to these ideas through practical and critical activities that demonstrate your understanding of different styles, genres and traditions.

 

Key Units

Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of photography, such as those listed below. You may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas:

• portraiture
• landscape photography (working from the urban, rural and/or coastal environment)
• still life photography (working from objects or from the natural world)
• documentary photography, photojournalism
• fashion photography
• experimental imagery
• multimedia
• photographic installation
• moving image (video, film, animation)

 

Entry Requirements

To study 3 A Levels

5+ GCSEs grades 9-4 in different subjects, including English Language and Maths at a minimum of grade 4.

Additional Requirements

GCSE grade 9-4 in an art related subject

The Sheffield Sixth Form welcomes students who have studied vocational qualifications. However, the minimum entry requirements for the A Level programme, as shown above, must be GCSEs.

 

Assessment

The A Level specification is designed to be taken over two years with all assessments taken at the end of the course.

There is synoptic assessment in both components of the A Level:

Component 1 - Extended Collection of Work

Students develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome/series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1000 and no more than 3000 words which supports the practical work.

Component 2 - Response to a Stimulus

Students respond to a stimulus (provided by the exam board), to produce work which evidences their ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response and which leads to a finished outcome/series of related finished outcomes.
 

Where does this lead

The next step could be to our own Foundation Degree in Photography or other Higher Education course in this field.
 

Future Opportunities

Career opportunities include:

• Advertising
• Photo journalism
• Freelance photography

Many of our students experience live projects whilst studying; taking on commission for local industry and personal clients.

 

Tell Me More

Will this subject suit me?

An ideal student for this course is someone who is motivated, has a desire to learn and wants to express their ideas visually. You will want to explore and research different topics and themes and will need to show your increasing acquisition of techniques and skills.

Extra Costs

Visits to Paris, London and local exhibitions are arranged during the course in order for you to broaden your understanding and appreciation of photography.

You will be required to pay for printing of sketchbooks and portfolios before final submission, this can cost between £50 and £80 depending on quality of output selected.
Those in financial hardship can apply for help from the college’s Student Support Fund.