Welcome from the Principal
Graphic Design
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What will I learn in this subject?
When you judge a book by its cover, choose a product because you have seen the ad, instantly recognise a company by its logo, or go to an exhibition after seeing a poster, then you are responding to visual messages - this is what graphic communication is all about. You will learn to be a creative and explore different ways to communicate messages - this will be done by hand, by computer and or hand and computer. We will explore the basics of Photoshop and Illustrator to edit pictures and to develop typefaces to create designs that communicate a message.
Anything else I need to know?
You need to be creative and passionate about graphic design to succeed. The coursework is quite time consuming so you must make sure you keep up to date with deadlines. You also need to be prepared to write about your work and evaluate it in your sketchbook.
What can I do after?
(The jobs below are potential routes which would mean two years at college in this area)
- Graphic Designer - University route
- Graphic Designer - Apprenticeship route
- Web designer
- Architecture
- Marketing Manager
- Film and Video Editor
- Animation
- Freelance Illustrator
- Surface pattern designer
- Graphics or art teacher
Learning Journey
How is it assessed?
60% Coursework - This is made up of two projects. Both projects will include drawing, exploring different design techniques, creating design ideas and making a final outcome of your choice. This could be poster designs, book covers or brand identity. You also need to write about your own work and the work of other graphic designers.
40% Exam - This is a practical exam. You will be given your exam question in the January of year 11. You will then have time research, experiment, design and plan what you will do in your exam time. The exam is 10 hours long and it will take place over two days during this time you will be making a final piece.