Menu Vision Logo 2

A LEVEL OPEN EVENT
Thursday 23 January | 5.30-7.30pm

BOOK NOW!

Art and Design (Photography) A Level - Level 3

Overview

Art and Design (Photography) invites students to explore the dynamic world of image-making, blending technical skills with creative vision. You’ll learn how to capture striking images, from still life and portraiture to abstract and experimental photography, using the latest digital techniques and equipment. This course offers you the opportunity to experiment with composition, lighting, and post-production editing, while also understanding the role photography plays in storytelling, art, and contemporary culture.

As you progress, you will develop a portfolio of work that reflects your personal style and creative ideas, preparing you for further study or a career in the creative industries. This course is ideal for those looking to push boundaries, work independently, and explore new ways of seeing the world through a lens.

What does it combine with?


Attend an A Level open event

Join us to find out more about our A Level courses and to see our dedicated sixth form campus. Book today!


What will I study?

  • The use of visual elements such as line, form, colour, and texture
  • Understanding viewpoint, composition, and camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, depth of field)
  • Exploring different photographic genres and styles, both historical and contemporary
  • Working to a brief or theme, responding creatively to an issue or concept.
  • Technical photography skills
  • Understanding of how ideas and feelings are conveyed through images
  • Awareness of social, cultural, and historical contexts in photography
  • Use of specialist terminology and critical reflection.

Entry requirements

  • GCSE English Language and Maths grade 4-9
  • An art-related GCSE subject grade 5-9
  • Plus two other GCSEs at grade 4-9
  • A photography portfolio for approval.

 


Study programmes - essential skills for employment

If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.

Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.

Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.

In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.


How long is the course?

Two years.


How will I be assessed?

  • Personal investigation: no time limit, 96 marks, 60% of A-level
  • Externally set assignment: preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time, 96 marks, 40% of A-level.

What does the course lead to?

This course develops a broad range of creative, technical, and critical thinking skills, preparing you for both higher education and careers in the creative industries. You will gain practical experience with digital photography, editing techniques, and an understanding of visual communication. This course also builds your ability to analyse and reflect on your work and the work of others, making it an excellent foundation for any creative or visual-based discipline.


What can I progress onto?

  • Further study at university-level* in Photography, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Media Studies, Visual Arts, or Film and Television.
  • Creative careers such as commercial photography, fashion photography, photojournalism, graphic design, advertising, or digital marketing.
  • Art and Design foundation courses, which allow you to further explore creative disciplines before specialising.
  • Freelance work in photography, building your own portfolio, or working with clients on projects and commissions.

*As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may qualify for various benefits should you choose to apply to NTU after completing your college course. This could include a Progress NTU offer, where you would receive an offer one grade below their standard offer. For instance, a typical offer for one of their courses might require 128 UCAS tariff points. With Progress NTU, your requirements would be 120 UCAS tariff points. For further details, please call us on 0808 100 3626 or discover more about this benefit here.


Career opportunities

There isn't currently career information listed for this course.


How do I apply?

You don’t need to apply for each A Level course you are interested in individually.

Once we have received your application form we will invite you into college where we will be able to discuss every aspect of the courses you have chosen as well as any alternatives you may be considering.

You will also have the opportunity to visit the areas of the college used for your course choices.

Next steps

Apply for this course

Please contact us on 0808 100 3626 or email enquiries@wnc.ac.uk

Attend an open event

View our upcoming events

Call our general enquiries team

0808 100 3626
Getting to college Financial support How to apply Course guides

Why choose West Notts?

An icon of a handshake in a circle

Courses created in partnership with local employers to meet their specific workforce needs.

An icon of two hands holding a heart in a circle

Excellent student support services from careers and financial advice to health and wellbeing.

An icon of a bus in a circle

We offer a flexible and cost-effective travel pass to all students and apprentices.

An icon of a building in a circle

We have nine campuses each boasting a number of state-of-the-art facilities.

An icon of a book in a circle

We offer a wide-range of FREE* adult courses.*subject to eligibility.

2020 Appeals Process | Policies and statements | Freedom of Information | Accessibility Statement | Modern Slavery Statement | Privacy Notices
© West Nottinghamshire College