The course begins with a clear focus on the importance of lighting, as well as compositional techniques. The focus of Chiaroscuro once again builds upon the idea that clear parallels can be drawn across genres of art as well as the centuries.

Students are taken through a number of different approaches from still life to landscape, each time focusing on an individual artist as well as independently sourcing imagery which interests them. As they are reach the conclusion of the project, they are each encouraged in their own direction, using one to one tutorials to support their independence.

The remaining part of the course is intended to follow the exam board’s requirement of an ‘independently led personal project’. Students are only given broad starting points, intended to serve as a spring board for their own ideas. They are once again supported with one to one sessions throughout their lessons.

A good range of GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including English Language and Maths at grade 4 (or above), and a grade 5 (or above) in either Fine Art, Three Dimensional Design or Photography. Portfolio submissions from students who have not completed this subject at GCSE will be considered at the discretion of the subject teachers.

The AS Level comprises of 2 components:

Component 1 - Personal Investigation, worth 60% of the qualification. Students will complete a personal study (essay) as part of Component 1, which is worth 12% of their overall grade. 15 hour practical examination.

Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment, worth 40% of the qualification. 10 hour practical examination.