My child is younger than 14, can they still join?
There is no specific entry age set by the exam board, however the student would need to be able to work comfortable at GCSE/IGCSE level. Not only in terms of their visual skill and ability but also in terms of their understanding. We are more than happy to meet you and your child to see if this is a suitable course for them.
Do we need to buy any equipment?
We provide all of the equipment needed for the lessons including paper, paints, collage materials, pastels, printmaking equipment, ceramics (firing and glazing) etc. It is advisable to buy some of your own basic equipment to use between lessons.
How many children in the group?
Maximum of 6
Where are the lessons held?
Lessons are held in our cosy, fully equipped, purpose built studio in Dunstable, Bedfordshire. We have large wooden art tables, large sink, white board and kiln, alongside all the usual equipment you would expect to see in an art studio.
My child struggles with writing, will this be a problem?
There is a written element of 1500-2000 words to one of the units, plus students will be expected to add written annotations to their work to help explain their ideas, However, none of this is under exam conditions and there will never be any pressure for students to write in the lesson if that makes them feel uncomfortable. The study (1500-2000 words) can be typed, dictated into a word processor or made as a multimedia presentation. The important aspect to the written work is the students understanding and analytical skills.
What happens if my child wants to leave the group?
That’s fine there is no commitment to stay until the end of the course. You would only be charged up the end of the current month.
Where will my child sit the exam?
We are not an exam centre, it is the parents responsibility to enter and pay for their child to sit the exam. However, we have a number of different centres that we work closely with. Some are schools, some are independent exam centres. Prices vary, but as we enter as a group and have a good relationships with the centres we are able to negotiate better deals than individuals. I personally will always be present during the exam, alongside the centre invigilators.
Who is teaching the course and what experience do they have?
The course is taught by . A fully qualified Art and Design specialist teacher with over 19 years teaching experience, A Level Art and Design moderator and former A Level Applied Art and Design Principal Moderator. Occasionally ( If Nancy is away moderating) the class will be taught by . Tamsin has been with the organisation since 2012 and is very experienced and competent independent teacher.
Can my child choose what areas of Art and Design they want to specialise in?
Yes absolutely! Students can specialise in any area or combinations of areas for any units. Including; Fine Art, printmaking, painting, drawing, 3D, abstract, traditional, Textiles, fashion, design, architecture, interiors, Graphics, advertising, game design, Photography, film, photoshop, animation etc etc.