Art and Design

Art and Design

 

GCSE Art and Design (WJEC – Wales)

Exam board: WJEC
Qualification type: GCSE
Course length: 2 years (Years 10 and 11)
Assessment: 100% coursework
First award: Available annually (Wales only)

GCSE Art and Design is a creative, practical and expressive qualification that allows students to explore ideas, materials and techniques while developing confidence, independence and imagination. It encourages learners to think visually, take risks and develop personal responses to themes, artists and the world around them. 

Course Overview

This is a two‑year linear course made up of two units, both assessed through practical coursework. There are no written exams.

Students develop:

  • Creative and imaginative thinking
  • Practical skills with a wide range of materials and processes
  • The ability to research, analyse and reflect on their work
  • Confidence in presenting personal ideas and final outcomes

The course builds on Key Stage 3 Art and provides a strong foundation for Art, Photography or Design at A level, as well as creative pathways beyond school.

What Will Students Study?

Students follow one Art and Design title, chosen by the school. Available titles include:

  • Art, Craft and Design (broad course)
  • Fine Art
  • Graphic Communication
  • Textile Design
  • Three‑Dimensional Design
  • Photography
  • Critical and Contextual Studies

Within each title, students explore ideas through research, experimentation and making, supported by written annotation and visual recording.

Assessment Structure

Unit 1 – Portfolio

60% of the qualification

  • A major body of practical work completed over the course
  • Themes and starting points set by the school and teacher
  • Includes research, experimentation, development of ideas and final outcomes
  • Internally assessed and externally moderated

Unit 2 – Externally Set Assignment

40% of the qualification

  • A task set by WJEC, released in January of Year 11
  • Students choose one theme and develop a personal response
  • Includes:
    • A preparatory period (research and development)
    • A 10‑hour supervised sustained focus to produce a final outcome
  • Internally assessed and externally moderated

How Is the Work Assessed?

All work is marked against four assessment objectives, each worth 25%:

  • Developing ideas through research and analysis
  • Exploring and refining ideas using materials and techniques
  • Recording ideas through drawing, annotation and reflection
  • Presenting personal outcomes that show creativity and understanding

Students are awarded GCSE grades from A to G*.

Skills Students Will Develop

Students will:

  • Experiment confidently with a wide range of materials and media
  • Use drawing and visual recording to develop ideas
  • Analyse artists, designers and influences
  • Reflect on their progress and improve their work
  • Develop independence, resilience, organisation and creativity

These skills are valuable across many subjects and future careers.

Who Is GCSE Art and Design For?

This course is ideal for students who:

  • Enjoy creative and practical learning
  • Like expressing ideas visually
  • Are motivated to work independently over extended projects
  • Are interested in art, design, fashion, photography or creative careers

No previous qualifications are required.

Progression Opportunities

GCSE Art and Design supports progression to:

  • A level Art, Photography or Design
  • Creative vocational courses
  • Careers in art, fashion, graphics, media, architecture, design and education
  • A wide range of non‑creative careers where creativity and problem‑solving are valued

Key Information at a Glance

  • Assessment: 100% coursework
  • Units: Portfolio (60%) and Externally Set Assignment (40%)
  • Exam board: WJEC
  • Tiering: None – full range of GCSE grades available
  • Course focus: Creative process, not written exams