Why study Art?
A‑Level Art and Design at Queen’s is an inspiring, ambitious and highly creative journey that empowers students to think independently, experiment boldly and develop a confident artistic voice. Rooted in a dynamic, exploratory ethos, the course invites students to push boundaries and immerse themselves in a rich variety of media, from drawing, painting and printmaking to textiles, installation and photography.
Students take the broad Art and Design qualification, giving them the freedom to play to their strengths while also discovering new ways of working. The course is both rigorous and deeply rewarding—an exciting blend of challenge, experimentation and personal discovery. Our teaching is highly tailored to each individual, and is enhanced by life drawing classes, gallery visits, talks from practising artists, and hands‑on workshops that bring contemporary creative practice into the studio. This vibrant and supportive environment encourages every student to unlock their potential and flourish as an original thinker and maker.
If you enjoy exploring ideas, experimenting with materials and approaching the world with curiosity and imagination, Art and Design offers a stimulating and fulfilling pathway for your A‑Level studies.
What will I study? How will I be assessed?
Students follow the Edexcel Advanced GCE in Art and Design. Over the two‑year course, you will develop a substantial personal investigation based on a theme that genuinely interests you. This allows you to research widely, experiment freely and take meaningful creative risks as you form an authentic and cohesive body of work.
Your A‑Level culminates in a major timed practical examination at the end of the second year. During this final piece, you will draw together the ideas, processes and techniques you have refined throughout the course to create a resolved, ambitious outcome that reflects your personal artistic journey.
What skills will I gain? Where can Art lead?
A creative outlook is a prerequisite for many careers and there are a great many areas of specialisation within the field of Art and Design for future study such as:
| Architecture | Animation |
| Applied and Decorative Arts | Design, Branding and Marketing |
| Design Culture | Digital 3-D Design |
| Fashion Design | Fashion Promotions |
| Film and Video Production | Fine Art |
| Furniture Design | Graphic Design |
| Illustration | Interior Design |
| Interior Design | Product Design |
| Photography | Printmaking |