Digital Art / Graphic Communications A Level

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM THE NORTON KNATCHBULL SCHOOL FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 APPLICATIONS*

Open Evening - Thursday 11th January 2024 6pm - 8pm

Applications Open - Wednesday 3rd January 2024

Applications Close - Friday 26th January 2024

Entry Requirements - A minimum of six separately identifiable GCSE subjects at grade 6 or above, OR an average of grade 6 in the best six GCSE subjects achieved

At least a grade 5 in both English and Mathematics For most subjects at A Level, a grade 6 in the subject at GCSE is required. However, for A Level Mathematics a grade 7 is required, and for Further Mathematics a grade 8 is necessary

.How to Apply - Applications can be made through Kent Choices from the 3rd January 2024

Please contact us directly if you have any questions - contact sixthformrecruitment@nks.kent.sch.uk

This Graphic Communication course develops contemporary creative and digital skills, with a particular focus on animation, digital illustration and product branding. Students learn how to communicate ideas effectively through the combination of images, typography, colour, moving image and digital media, while considering the needs of different audiences and commercial contexts.

Through practical projects and design briefs, students develop skills in digital illustration using industry-relevant software, creating visual narratives, characters, promotional artwork and interactive content, alongside animation techniques including storyboarding, moving image, sound and time-based design. The course also introduces product branding and packaging, enabling students to explore brand identity, logo development, packaging design, sustainable materials and the creation of three dimensional prototypes.

Students will develop an understanding of advertising, marketing, typography, information design and digital presentation, while learning to balance creativity with client requirements, audience expectations and commercial objectives. The course provides a contemporary foundation in visual communication, encouraging students to experiment with emerging technologies and develop a professional portfolio that reflects the skills and practices of the modern creative industries.

The coursework component of the course is worth 60% of the final mark and the ESA unit is worth 40%. ​

Grade 6 or above in GCSE Arts based course. BTEC Level 2 Art – grade Merit.​

Students completing this course can progress into a wide range of vocational roles within the creative and digital industries, including animation, digital illustration, graphic design, branding, advertising, packaging design, social media content creation and digital marketing. Opportunities may include apprenticeships, junior designer roles, freelance creative work and employment within design agencies, marketing teams, publishing, media and animation studios. The practical and portfolio-based nature of the course also provides a strong foundation for developing specialist skills and progressing into industry-focused training or employment.