Photography

Capture, Create, communicate

Qualification: A Level
Exam Board: AQA
Duration: 2 years
Entry Requirements: Minimum Grade 4 in English and a grade 5 in a creative subject such as Art or Media
Level: 3 (Advanced Level)

New for students joining the college in 2026, Photography is an exciting and dynamic visual language that allows you to explore the world through a creative lens. The course encourages you to develop a personal and informed response to themes, ideas, and issues that inspire you.

Whether your interest lies in fine art, documentary, portraiture, or experimental imagery, A Level Photography provides the technical and conceptual foundations to produce original, meaningful work. You will explore both traditional and digital techniques while gaining insight into the power of photography to communicate, provoke, and tell stories.

Students who enjoy independent creative work, visual storytelling, and experimentation will thrive on this course — developing the confidence and imagination needed to produce ambitious photographic outcomes.

An interest in art, design, and visual culture is essential. Students who enjoy working independently, experimenting with ideas, and paying attention to detail will excel.

Some prior experience with photography or image editing software (such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom) is useful but not essential — enthusiasm, curiosity, and creativity are far more important. Strong organisation, time management, and the ability to reflect on feedback will also support success. Having your own camera is not essential, but is reccommended.

What Will I learn?

You will learn how to:
• Use digital and traditional cameras with confidence and control
• Edit and manipulate images using industry-standard software
• Research and analyse the work of photographers and artists, developing critical and contextual understanding
• Plan, shoot, and present creative projects in response to set and personal themes
• Develop your own creative voice through sustained experimentation and reflection

Careers Progression

Photography develops creative, technical, and analytical skills that are highly valued across a range of industries. Many students progress to higher education in Photography, Fine Art, Media, Graphic Design, Film, or Visual Communication.

The qualification also opens pathways to careers in advertising, fashion, journalism, film production, marketing, and the creative arts. It nurtures transferable skills in problem-solving, project management, and creative thinking that are valuable across many professional fields.

How you'll be assessed

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%)
A practical portfolio exploring a chosen theme, supported by a written personal study of 1,000–3,000 words that demonstrates contextual research and critical understanding.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)
An externally set brief that culminates in a 15-hour controlled practical exam, where students create a final piece informed by preparatory work.

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