All GCSE students studying Art and Design, Textiles and Applied Art follow the new AQA Specification and will be given the opportunity to experience painting and drawing, fabric screen printing, 3D Construction and Mixed Media Textiles.

Over the two weekly timetable, pupils have five sixty minute lessons and class sets are mixed at this level. The Coursework completed by each pupil accounts for 50% of the final mark, and the external exam takes place in March at the end of Year 11, which is also worth 50%.

In Year 10, pupils will be expected to produce two units of work, engaging with, analysing and reflecting upon the artwork of artists, craftworkers and designers. They will use a range of processes, techniques and media throughout their sketchbooks to develop ideas, record observations and research artists. Students will participate in a 10 hour mock exam at the end of Year 10, which will take place over two days. Pupils will be expected to produce sketchbook work and preparatory work ready for the exam.

In Year 11 each pupil will start their individual project, based on their level of skill and capability. Homework will be given throughout the course, which will include research, sketchbook work and preparation work. This will always be discussed with pupils on an individual basis.