Start Date
- September 2026, Full Time, Day
What You Will Study
Learn a range of practical graphic communication skills and create imaginative work to a series of briefs through this A Level course. You will have the opportunity to experiment with a whole range of materials, techniques and processes using digital and non-digital approaches, supporting you to develop your creativity and independent thought, learn to express yourself visually, and let your imagination flourish.
Our Graphic Communication A Level will build on the skills, knowledge and understanding developed through art-based courses at GCSE. You will learn the elements of effective design by working to a series of set briefs and completing your own personal projects. The course is broken up into two components where you will develop work for a personal investigation based on your own interests in design and produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting AQA starting points.
You will develop your creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills, all transferable to a range of other subjects. As a graphic communication student you will take part in a series of workshops to understand the equipment on offer, with access to our print studio, photography suite and Adobe software.
You will benefit from visiting speakers who will talk to you about their design process. Last year, our students learned from graphic designer and illustrator Andy Ward and graphic designer Lauren Meiszner. You will exhibit your work in the annual Paston Art Show held in June each year and you will also have opportunities to go on trips abroad to Amsterdam and Berlin. We have great links with employers and with Norwich University of the Arts and have annual talks on creative progression, careers, and portfolio advice.
Why Choose Paston College?
A wide range of subjects
We're proud to be the biggest provider of A Levels in Norfolk, offering 27 A Level courses
Student progression
100% of our students progress to university, employment, apprenticeships, of gap years
Excellent results
Our students do consistently well on their A Level courses, with pass rates consistently in the high 90s
Entry Requirements
You will need to achieve a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6 or above, and three GCSEs at grade 4 or above. You need to achieve grade 4 or above in any art or design subject at GCSE. If you did not take an art or design GCSE, you must have a portfolio approved after interview as a condition of offer.
How You Will Be Assessed
The course is broken up into two components. In the first you will develop work for a personal investigation based on your own interests in design. This will count for 60% of your total A Level marks. In the second, you will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting AQA starting points which will count for the final 40% of your marks.
Course Progression
The course will help you prepare for the next step in your creative career. Many students go directly onto degree courses at a wide range of universities to study graphics and/or other visual art disciplines.
Where Your Course Can Take You
You consider progressing onto a career in animation, digital arts, graphic communication, graphic design, media design, illustration, printmaking, packaging design, typographic design, fashion marketing, and branding.
Fees
If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over please contact the Advice Shop.
