You will explore a range of graphic design techniques, including hand‑drawn methods but mainly digital design. Key areas include:

• Working to design briefs to create Graphic Products for a specific audience.
• Exploring a range of art‑based techniques such as drawing and photography, but mainly working digitally using Photoshop and similar software.
• Studying a range of designers and artists.
• Creating digital project portfolios.
• Experimenting with designs and images using Photoshop.
• Realising personal intentions through final, real‑world outcomes such as posters, album covers, game designs, watch designs, interiors, product logos, and more.

100% non‑exam assessment (coursework and externally set assignment; no written exams):

• Component 1: Portfolio - 96 marks, 60% - A sustained personal project showing the journey from initial ideas to final realisation, plus further work completed during the course. Internally assessed and externally moderated by AQA; no time limit.
• Component 2: Externally set assignment - 96 marks, 40% - Respond to one starting point from the AQA exam paper, followed by a preparatory period and 10 hours of supervised time to produce final outcomes. Internally assessed and externally moderated.

Both components address four equal assessment objectives: developing ideas (AO1), experimenting/refining (AO2), recording (AO3), and presenting a personal response (AO4). Work is graded 9-1 based on practical portfolios, sketchbooks, and final pieces.

After GCSE Graphics, there are several post‑16 study options depending on whether you prefer coursework, exams, or hands‑on learning. Common choices include A‑levels in Graphic Design, A‑levels in Art and Design, or A‑levels in Media Studies, which are more academic and suited to students thinking about university. You could also take practical pathways such as Level 3 BTEC or Cambridge Technicals in Graphic Design, Art and Design, Creative Media, Digital Design, or Animation - all of which focus more on practical work and portfolio development.

For a more skills‑based route, T‑levels in Digital Production, Design & Development or Creative and Design are an option, while apprenticeships in areas such as graphic design, digital marketing, or content creation allow you to work while studying. All of these routes can lead to university, higher apprenticeships, or a wide range of creative careers.

• Graphic Designer
• Brand Designer
• Visual Identity Designer
• Print Designer
• Web Designer
• UI (User Interface) Designer
• UX (User Experience) Designer
• Digital / Product Designer
• Marketing Designer
• Social Media Designer
• Content Creator / Digital Content Designer
• Motion Graphics Designer
• Animator (2D / 3D)
• 3D Designer / Visualisation Artist
• Packaging Designer
• Game Artist
• Concept Artist
• VFX Artist
• Art Director
• Creative Director
• Freelance Graphic Designer
• Design Consultant
• Graphic Design Teacher / Lecturer

This specialist course is highly creative and practical, allowing you to focus on graphic design while developing a distinctive personal style in a supportive environment. It suits students who enjoy using digital tools, engaging in visual problem‑solving, working with typography, and creating impactful designs, with no prior experience required.

Graphic design can lead to a wide range of creative, digital, and media careers. With strong graphic design skills, you can work as a graphic designer, brand designer, or visual identity designer, creating logos, posters, and visual identities. You can also move into digital roles such as web design, UI design, or UX design for websites and apps. Graphic design opens pathways into marketing and social media design, where you create visuals for campaigns and online content, as well as exciting fields such as motion graphics, animation, and game and film design. Many designers choose to work freelance or progress into senior roles such as art director or creative director, making graphic design a versatile career path with excellent opportunities.