What is A-Level Art?
The Art A level at d’Overbroeck’s is a creative but demanding course. Involving both practical work and critical appreciation, the A-Level is one that is well respected by universities in the UK and abroad.
At d’Overbroeck’s Sixth Form, we have a dynamic and individual-centred approach to Art A-Level – one that emphasises flexibility and creativity. Although technique is a vital element of the course, we are above all interested in allowing you to develop your own artistic style and opinions – your own voice.
Where you'll study
Brand new for September 2021, our new Arts Centre site is located within 10 minutes’ walk of our main Sixth Form centre in the bustling community of Summertown. Situated in a modern and creative suburb of Oxford, the d’Overbroeck’s Arts Centre is a stone’s throw away from the city’s wide variety of world-famous galleries and art museums to get you inspired.
At our Arts Centre, you’ll have access to specialist studios and state-of-the-art facilities for:
- 3D Art
- Ceramics
- Fine Art
- Photography
- Textiles
The stunning new open art spaces enable more room for collaboration, exhibition and display opportunities, as well as ambitious project work, both in terms of size and complexity.
What you'll do
First Year
In the first term we run an introductory course, exploring practical and theoretical aspects of art, developing practical and critical skills; in the second term and third terms students work on an exam project.
Second Year
Students research and develop work for a coursework project of their choice; in the second and third terms students work on their final exam project.
Whom does this subject suit?
If you are already aiming to apply to Art school or work as an artist, designer or architect, you are likely already to be interested in – and suited to – Art A level. You will find that the course offers plenty of opportunities to hone your skills and develop as an artist.
The course is not, however, solely suitable for aspiring career artists; it could make an excellent addition to your A level programme, whatever your ambitions may be. Art may broaden the scope of an otherwise primarily essay-based or scientific selection of subjects.
Your Art GCSE grade is probably the best indication of your ability to pursue the A level – but we may also take students on the strength of their ability to demonstrate an interest in art & design and motivation to develop their skills.
What might the subject lead to?
The Art Department at d’Overbroeck’s has a great track record of getting students onto excellent art, design and history of art degree courses. We are very experienced in supporting students through their application process, helping to plan portfolios and prepare for interviews. It has been great to follow the successes of our students as they have progressed through degree courses and into careers in art and design.
For most art and design students, an Art & Design Foundation course is the best way to explore the possible directions for study at degree level.
Many of our students are offered places on the Foundation course at Oxford Brookes, one of the top courses of its type in Britain. We also have students regularly accept places on other excellent Foundation courses at top institutions, including the Royal Drawing School, Kingston, Manchester, Loughborough, the University of Creative Arts (UCA) and University of the Arts London (UAL). One of our students’ top destination choices recently has been Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London.