Art & Design is the study of the study of visual communication, creative expression, and problem-solving through a range of media and techniques.
At Knutsford Academy we aim to foster creativity, build confidence, and develop technical skills in both traditional and contemporary art forms.
Course Overview
We study the AQA Art and Design specification.
Art and Design is the study of practical and theoretical visual arts through the AQA GCSE specification including Art, Graphics, Textiles and Graphics.
We aim to develop students' personal responses, refine techniques, and build portfolios that reflect thoughtful investigation.
Assessment
Component 1: Portfolio (Coursework) — 60% of final grade
What it includes:
A selection of work from a sustained project and sometimes additional pieces.
A sketchbook showing research, development, experiments, and final outcomes.
Evidence of understanding and critical analysis of artists, themes, and techniques.
Assessed on:
How ideas are developed.
Creative use of materials and techniques.
Recording observations and insights.
A personal, meaningful final outcome.
This qualification is assessed via external exams at the end of Year 11.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (ESA) 40% of final grade
What it includes:
Students choose one of several starting points (set by the exam board, released in January of Year 11).
They get preparation time (usually around 8–10 weeks) to explore ideas in their sketchbook.
A 10-hour practical exam (usually over two days) in which they produce a final outcome based on their prep.
Enrichment
- GCSE catch-ups
- Conway Art Workshop Residential
- Gallery Visits
- Visiting Artists
Careers
reative & Artistic Careers
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Fine Artist (Painter, Sculptor, Illustrator)
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Graphic Designer
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Animator / Motion Graphics Artist
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Concept Artist (Games, Film, Animation)
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Illustrator (Books, Editorial, Advertising)
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Photographer
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Printmaker
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Ceramicist / Potter
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Textile Designer
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Fashion Designer
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Jewellery Designer
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Furniture Designer
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Tattoo Artist
Digital & Media Design
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Web Designer / Developer
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Video Game Designer
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3D Modeler
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Video Editor
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Visual Effects (VFX) Artist
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Digital Marketing Designer
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Social Media Content Creator
Commercial & Applied Arts
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Advertising Art Director
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Packaging Designer
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Exhibition Designer
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Set / Theatre Designer
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Interior Designer
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Architectural Visualiser
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Product Designer
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Branding Specialist
Education & Research
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Art Teacher / Lecturer
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Museum Curator
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Art Therapist
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Art Conservator / Restorer
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Art Historian
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Gallery Manager
Other Related Roles
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Creative Director
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Stylist (Fashion, Interior, Events)
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Animator for TV/Film
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Makeup Artist (Special Effects, Fashion)
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Art Buyer / Consultant
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Craftsperson / Artisan
Contact
Mrs L Mason: lmn@knutsfordacademy.org.uk
