Art &
Photography Art &
Photography Art & Photography

Why Study Art and Photography?

The Creative Arts curriculum at Beaulieu is integral to student development, guided by passionate, experienced teachers who are practising artists themselves. Our Art and Photography courses aim to make creativity accessible to all students while fostering enjoyment, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding through structured projects.

Creative subjects are essential in helping students develop critical skills such as problem-solving, innovative thinking, and emotional expression. They also encourage students to engage with and interpret the world around them, building self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of personal achievement. Our subjects foster creativity, which is vital for success in a rapidly changing world, providing students with the tools to think outside the box and adapt to new challenges.

Year after year, our students produce outstanding work, which is reflected in the continued success of our GCSE and A-level results. This achievement speaks to the dedication of both our students and teaching staff, ensuring that each learner reaches their full potential.

The departments promote independent learning, encouraging students to explore materials, ideas, and their role in the world, building confidence and self-worth. From Year 7 onward, students develop technical skills, gain exposure to various techniques, and grow in creativity. Our curriculum aligns with AQA’s four assessment objectives, ensuring that Creative Arts remain engaging, relevant, and enjoyable for students at all levels.

Our courses are designed to support individual needs, promoting investigation, problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. Students develop an appreciation for art materials and media while gaining respect for the subject and environment.

Year 7

Throughout Year 7, students develop their creativity by exploring diverse artistic media and influential artists. In autumn, they study Colour Theory through the vibrant work of Beatriz Milhazes, producing their own dynamic designs. In spring, they refine their use of colour, composition, and abstraction by studying Georgia O’Keeffe and developing their observational drawing skills to create expressive abstract studies. In summer, students investigate contemporary sculptor Peter Anton, using his playful cake sculptures as inspiration to create their own 3D forms, strengthening their understanding of shape, form, and texture.

Year 8

Throughout the year, students develop their artistic skills through projects linking contemporary and historical contexts. In autumn, they complete a Hyperrealism-inspired Still Life project, studying artists such as Sarah Graham, Douglas Newton, and Cynthia Poole while strengthening observational drawing skills. In spring, they explore portraiture, learning facial structure, proportion, and scale, culminating in a Kehinde Wiley–inspired piece that incorporates decorative design. In summer, students study Abstract Art through Wassily Kandinsky, using colour to express responses to music and producing a mixed-media final painting that showcases their understanding of composition, colour, and design.

Year 9-11: (AQA GCSE Fine Art)

Year 9 is designed as a foundation for the GCSE course, engaging students with the four assessment objectives while exposing them to a wide range of skills and techniques. In Years 10 and 11, students follow the AQA GCSE Fine Art specification, completing two major coursework projects that address all assessment objectives. One project is completed in Year 10 and one in Year 11, with the final outcome produced in a supervised 10-hour exam. Students also complete an externally set task released in January, with the exam in March. Coursework accounts for 60% of the final grade and the external task 40%.

Year 12-13: (AQA A Level Fine Art)

In Sixth Form, students take greater responsibility for independent research and creative development, supported by teachers, gallery visits, and workshops. A Level Fine Art is a linear two-year AQA course. In Year 12, students complete preparatory coursework to understand the required standards. In Year 13, they produce one extended coursework project and a 3,000-word personal study, together worth 60% of the grade. Students also complete an externally set task, culminating in a 15-hour exam, which makes up the remaining 40%.

Year 12-13: (AQA A Level Photography)

In Year 12 Photography, students gain foundational skills in DSLR camera use, photographic techniques, composition, and digital manipulation. They complete coursework projects and take part in workshops and gallery visits to understand the four AQA  assessment objectives. In Year 13, students develop a more in-depth coursework project and a 3,000-word personal study demonstrating strong research and contextual understanding. Together, these form 60% of the A Level. Students also complete an externally set task, finishing with a 15-hour exam that contributes the remaining 40%.