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Visual Arts A-Level For 16-19 Year Olds

A Level Art: Photography

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COURSE oVERVIEW

Photography is not just about technique but about perception and communication. You will explore technical camera facilities using traditional and computer technologies and learn how photographs are used to communicate and express yourself.

EXAMINATION BOARD:

AQA

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

If you do not have GCSE Art, it is advisable to have attended taster sessions and open events.

Why study A LEvel Art: Photography at Blackpool Sixth?

Workshop sessions enhance relevant skills to undertake innovative techniques and processes. Having freedom to develop broad portfolios prepares you for client briefs, trips, competitions, exhibitions, university and professional industries. Inspirational photography excursions including visits to local and international cities and galleries are an integral part of this course.

How will I be taught?

Independently, as a whole class or in small groups, or pairs. Lots of 1:1 discussions. Past example projects. Sharing of ideas with peers.

Teacher expertise

You are taught by a professional specialist photographer who develops her own photography through freelance projects.

What skills will I develop?

  • Time management
  • Meeting deadlines
  • How to develop ideas
  • Communication
  • Group work
  • Presentation skills
  • Literacy with analysis
  • How to size, print and present work
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How will I be assessed?

40

%
Practical Exam

    60

    %
    Coursework

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      What will you study and other information about A-Level Art: Photography

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      START WITH THE ARTS

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      Where does it lead?

      Students have progressed to work in various industries. This includes specialise in one of the following areas: portrait, fashion, commercial wildlife, fine arts, scientific and medical, press, sports, and travel. Many photographers go on to work in freelance positions, yet some students choose to use their creative skills in related areas such as marketing, advertising, web design, and digital marketing, where opportunities exist with a range of businesses and consultancies.

      Our Alumni

      Elliott Gray-Medd, class of 23

      HIGH SCHOOL: Cardinal Allen Catholic High School

      Elliott studied level 2 and 3 BTEC Health and Social Care, GCSE English and GCSE Maths at Blackpool Sixth. He is now working as a teaching assistant at Red Marsh School. He said “The staff are amazing and so supportive. I wouldn’t be where I am without them!”

      Yulan ChanDelaney, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Montgomery Academy

      Congratulations to Yulan ChanDelaney for achieving excellent grades in her A Levels! Yulan has excelled with A grades in Biology and her Extended Project and B grades in Chemistry and Religion, Ethics and Philosophy. We are delighted to announce that Yulan will be attending the University of Leeds in the coming academic year to study medicine. Best of luck with your future studies, Yulan!

      Adam Walker, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Millfield Science & Performing Arts College

      Adam has achieved an impressive Double Distinction star in BTEC Music and a Merit in BTEC Business at Blackpool Sixth. We are thrilled to announce that Adam will be pursuing Creative Musicianship at ICMP, and we cannot wait to see where his passion for music takes him!

      Luke Moore, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Lytham St Annes Technology & Performing Arts College

      Luke is an incredibly talented student who excelled in BTEC Performing Arts – Musical Theatre, achieving an impressive Triple Distinction Star grade. Luke has decided to take a gap year to audition for colleges but dreams to attend a top London-based college, and eventually make it to the West End. We have no doubt that Luke will achieve great success in his future!

      Thirisha Varatharajan, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Baines School

      Thirisha Varatharajan has excelled in her biology A Level with a grade of B, as well as chemistry and mathematics A Levels, both with a grade of A. We are proud to announce that Thirisha will be attending the University of Liverpool in the upcoming academic year. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours and can’t wait to see what she will achieve next!

      Maddie robinson, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Carr Hill

      Maddie Robinson has received a Double Distinction Star and a Distinction in Health & Social Care (Triple). We are thrilled to hear that Maddie plans to progress into employment at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, and we are confident that she will excel in this role. Maddie’s hard work and dedication have clearly paid off, and we wish her all the best with her future. Well done, Maddie!

      David Speight, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Highfield Leadership Academy

      David Speight gained an A grade in A Level Photography and a Double Distinction Star in BTEC Film and Television. We are proud to announce that he will be moving onto a Level 3 Content Creator Apprenticeship at Ascent Trampoline Park.

      Sarah Grogan, class of 23

      FORMER HIGH SCHOOL: Montgomery Academy

      Sarah has recently received A* grades in maths and physics, as well as an A in economics. We are thrilled to announce that Sarah will be attending Cambridge University to pursue her studies in economics.

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      Year 10 Experience Days

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      Building Futures Evening

      Join us for the Building Futures Event, a careers fair featuring insightful keynote talks designed to help students explore their next steps after college. This is a great opportunity to gather the latest information, guidance, and resources on progression options.

      🔹 Who can attend? Lower & Upper Sixth Students
      🔹 What to expect? Career insights, expert talks, and valuable networking opportunities

      Don’t miss this chance to plan your future with confidence!

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      Student Awards 2025

      A special evening celebrating the achievements of our current students. Invitation-only for award winners and their guests.

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      New Student Day

      An exclusive event for Year 11 applicants joining Blackpool Sixth in September. Experience your chosen courses, meet staff, and get a head start on college life!

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      Results Day (A Level and Level 3 Vocational)

      A key milestone for our students as they collect their results and take the next step in their journey. Support and guidance will be available on the day.

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