THE 'AS' and 'A' LEVEL COURSE IN ART & DESIGN -
' A BRIEF OVERVIEW FOR THE TERRIFIED'

For many potential 'mature' art students, the recent changes to the education system may well be a cause for reluctance in venturing into adult education classes - most of which now have to carry some form of acreditation.
It is true that the 'A' level art syllabus has changed over the last few years, but by looking at the results in this area in schools and colleges over the past few years you will see that something must be working. Last year Wales again showed a marked increase in passes at 'A level in most art and design subjects.

The two-year course that used to be the 'A' level in Art & Design has been changed to incorporate an additional tier at the end of the first year of study. This additional level is the 'AS' level and provides a distinct opportunity of assessment for students and teachers to recapitulate on the years work and to consider the personal direction of the students for the next level of the course - the 'A2' part of the 'A' level.
The first stage of assessment - the 'AS' also provides the candidates with a qualification, if successful, and, because part of the marks attained at 'AS' are carried forward over into the 'A2' level part of the course, the hard work of the first year now actually counts - rather than just preparing the student for the mad panic of the final year.

For me, Art is the most enjoyable and fulfilling subject in the National Curriculum. Art can change lives, can open eyes and fill the heart. If embraced fully, It is holistic in its approach to the education of a soul.
I returned to study at the age of 36 and found, to my surprise, that I had no trouble in keeping up with the 'youngsters' of the course. Indeed, we all pulled together and were a combined source of inspiration. Although I was lucky to get onto the Degree course initially, without the 'A' levels required, or a foundation course under my belt (you can be accepted through interview, portfolio evidence of ability and written tests), to think that someone would be put off studying the subject by simple changes in the system of assessment frightens me. It is because of this I have decided to put these pages together to demystify the subject at 'AS' and 'A2' level and, in doing so, encourage those of you who may be in two minds about joining those many thousands of us who are grateful for that opportunity.

The 'AS' element of the course

The 'A2' element of the course

The Aims & Objectives

"BRAINSTORMING" IDEAS

BOOKS FOR REFERENCE

These pages are also available for those already on the course, to clarify the requirements and to use as a source of reference for progress towards a successful outcome.

I would be very grateful for feedback on this article. I believe that resources like this need to take on board criticism from peers to provide the quality of information students deserve. This is just the first entry to a collection of pages of views, advice, news and articles aimed at assisting students in their study of Art & Design.
If you feel you can contribute we would welcome your input.

Please feel free to contact me at: nigel.williams@welshartsarchive.org.uk with your suggestions and comments.