Graphic Design & Illustration: Create & Build Portfolio

A Level Art and Design:
Graphic Communication

Study visual communication by comparing traditional and digital approaches to Graphic Design and Illustration. Use your sketchbook to explore, prior to bringing your ideas to reality. You’ll access a digital suite of Mac Books, Scanners, Cameras, Graphics Tablets, Photographic Dark Room, Art Studios, Print Making Facilities and more, becoming proficient with industry-standard Adobe software and producing a portfolio of your innovative concepts and explorations.

You may choose to look at Branding and Advertising, or Animation – understanding target audiences and copyright, appreciating deadlines – and above all thinking outside the box!

02/09/2026

Five GCSEs at Grade 5 or above which includes:
English and Mathematics, Art and Design and/or Graphic Design Or a strong portfolio of work

Think about studying alongside:

• Art Craft and Design
• Photography
• Textiles
• Business Studies
• Design and Technology:
  Product Design
• English Language
• English Literature
• Film Studies
• Media Studies

On this course you will be assessed in the following ways

• Advertising
• Marketing
• Production Designer
• Graphic Designer
• Web Designer
• Game Designer
• Illustrator
• Concept Designer

To enhance your work and seek inspiration, you will take part in a number of professional studio visits and hear from a multitude of guest speakers.