Graphic Communication

Course Overview

The Graphic Communication course at Cadbury College allows you to explore digital imaging, typography, illustration and photography as well as industry standard printing techniques and processes. There is also a small focus on drawing and painting from observation using traditional techniques. Students will also develop visual research skills and explore the design idea process.

The emphasis is on building your creativity and conceptual thinking skills using a wide range of materials, techniques and processes.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including Maths and English, with at least two at grade 6. An associated Art & Design subject at grade 5 or BTEC Merit.

 

Employability

Graphics A-Level enables progression on to a number of degree courses at university within the field including Web Design, Interior Design, Visual Communications and Photography. It also leads to a number of careers including Animator, Web Designer, Games Designer, Typographer, Packaging Designer, Furniture Design, Editorial Design, Exhibition Design, Illustrator and Advertising.

 

Qualification
Course Outline

Students have the opportunities to work on live projects such as editing photographs for the college website. They also have the chance to visit a few art galleries and exhibitions throughout the year.

Component 1 - Coursework:
1. An in-depth critical, practical & theoretical investigative project and outcome/s based on themes and subject matter that have personal significance.
2. An extended written essay of 1000 words, which may contain images and texts and must clearly relate to practical and theoretical work.
 
 Component 2 - Examination:

This externally set assignment component incorporates two major elements: preparatory studies and the practical 15-hour exam. The externally set assignment consists of a series of visual and written stimuli which is selected by the learner and used as a starting point to which students should respond in a very personal way. The practical exam consists of a 15-hour period of sustained focus work where students will create final pieces as a development of their preparatory work.

Exam Board
WJEC
 

Eniya Ali with her computer

Eniya is now working as a Graphic Designer at art.quarter in the Custard Factory. Eniya leads on designing and conceptualising social media posts and creating other graphic digital/print design needed for the creative Digbeth hub alongside the creative and marketing team.

Eniya was awarded A*,A*,A in Graphic Communication, Media Studies and Psychology. She says: “Becoming a graphic designer means I am able to put my design skills and what I learnt in Cadbury College into application. It’s an effective way to learn and grow within the industry and you create real impacts!”

During her time at Cadbury Eniya created her own healthy eating brand ‘Planet Organic’ and designed cereal boxes to match. She also directed and edited her own music video with industry level software, which enabled her to explore her own creativity in a fresh new way.

Eniya Ali

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the college allocate places to students?

All applicants will be invited to attend an admissions interview. An offer of a place to study at Cadbury Sixth Form College is made subject to you meeting the College's standard entry grade requirements.

How much does it cost to study at Cadbury Sixth Form College?

There are no tuition fees for 16-18 year-olds. Students are asked to pay a £25 book deposit when they enrol at the college, however this is returned at the end of the two years of study when all books and resources have been returned to the college. Some subjects will offer field trips which may impose some additional costs, however these costs will be kept to a minimum and these field trips are not compulsory.

When does enrolment take place?

Enrolment takes place from GCSE Results Day. Further details about enrolment and a date/time for your individual appointment will be sent to you in a letter over the summer holiday. Enrolment takes on average 1-2 hours.

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