Years 10 and 11
Graphic communication is a key stage 4 option only.
Awarding body
Course overview
Graphic communication involves creating visual material to share ideas, meaning and emotion. Students respond to both set and self-directed design briefs while exploring key visual elements such as colour, line, form, and composition.
Ideal for creative individuals, this course focuses on applying artistic skills in a commercial context, developing purposeful design work with real-world relevance.
What will students study?
Students studying graphic communication will explore a broad range of design areas, including communication graphics, design for print, advertising and branding, illustration, packaging design, typography, signage, and exhibition graphics.
They will develop an understanding of key industry concepts such as brand identity, forms of representation, intended message, target audience, and working within the parameters of a client brief. Throughout the course, students will learn how to generate creative, focused and purposeful design responses inspired by ideas, themes, issues and real-world needs.
Assessment
In year 11, students respond to a set theme or design brief by completing a major coursework project. This includes producing creative outcomes such as point-of-sale displays, packaging, and advertising materials.
The course concludes with a 10-hour externally set examination, where students apply their skills to create a final piece in response to a given brief.
