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International GCSE in Art and Design (9-1)

Pearson Edexcel – Qualification Codes: 4FA1, 4GC1, 4PY1, 4TE1, 4TD1

Why Study This Course?

The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Art and Design is designed to nurture students’ creativity, develop their critical thinking, and refine their technical skills across multiple artistic disciplines. This qualification is ideal for students who wish to:
  • Explore their artistic expression through a range of creative processes and materials.
  • Develop confidence in practical skills, including fine art, graphic communication, photography, textiles, and three-dimensional design.
  • Enhance their ability to research and analyse artworks, making informed connections between theory and practice.
  • Prepare for higher education in art-related fields such as architecture, fashion design, graphic design, and fine arts.

Who is This Course For?

This course is suitable for students who:

  • Are passionate about art, design, and creative problem-solving.
  • Want to develop visual communication skills essential for careers in creative industries.
  • Are considering progressing to A-Level Art & Design or related disciplines.
  • Enjoy practical and research-based learning that combines independent thinking with structured assessments.

Students can specialise in one of five endorsed titles, each offering unique opportunities for creative exploration.

Fine Art (4FA1)

Fine Art focuses on expressive, intellectual, and conceptual creativity rather than commercial application. 

Areas of Study

  • Drawing – Using graphite, ink, pastel, and mixed media.
  • Painting – Watercolour, acrylic, oil, and digital painting.
  • Sculpture – Clay, wood, metal, and experimental forms.
  • Printmaking – Linocut, screen printing, and etching.
  • Lens-based media – Photography and video used as artistic expression.

Graphic Communication (4GC1)

Graphic Communication involves visual problem-solving to convey messages and branding.

Areas of Study

  • Advertising and branding – Logo design, marketing materials.
  • Illustration – Book, editorial, and digital illustration.
  • Typography and layout – Print and digital design.
  • Multimedia and animation – Motion graphics, web, and app design.
  • Package design and signage – Retail branding and environmental graphics.

Photography (4PY1)

Photography explores lens-based media to capture and manipulate visual narratives.

Areas of Study

  • Documentary photography – Storytelling through real-life imagery.
  • Studio photography – Portraiture, lighting techniques.
  • Experimental photography – Mixed media and digital manipulation.
  • Photojournalism – Capturing current events and cultural perspectives.
  • Moving Image – Video production and animation.

Textile Design (4TE1)

Textile Design incorporates fabric manipulation, pattern-making, and innovative techniques.

Areas of Study

  • Printed and dyed textiles – Batik, silk-screen, and digital printing.
  • Constructed textiles – Weaving, felting, and knitting.
  • Fashion design – Garment construction, costume design.
  • Embroidery and embellishment – Hand and machine stitching.

Three-Dimensional Design (4TD1)

Three-Dimensional Design focuses on functional and aesthetic product development.

Areas of Study

  • Architectural and interior design – Model-making, spatial planning.
  • Product design – Consumer goods, packaging, and furniture.
  • Sculpture and ceramics – Experimental forms and material exploration.
  • Jewellery and body adornment – Contemporary and traditional techniques.

The course assesses students based on the following objectives:

Objective Description Weighting
AO1 Develop ideas through research and critical analysis 25%
AO2 Experiment with materials, techniques, and processes 25%
AO3 Record ideas, observations, and creative development 25%
AO4 Present a personal and meaningful final response 25%

Flexible Learning and Creative Freedom

Students have the freedom to choose their own themes and techniques, making this an exciting and individualised learning experience.

Recognition and Global Relevance

The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE is widely recognised by universities, employers, and creative institutions worldwide.

Pathway to Higher Education

This course provides an excellent foundation for A-Level Art & Design, preparing students for careers in architecture, fashion, graphic design, fine art, photography, and other creative fields.

Course Structure

The qualification consists of two key components:

Component 1: Personal Portfolio (50%)

Assessment Format

Internally set, externally marked

Skills Assessed

  • Development of ideas through research and practical exploration.
  • Use of materials, techniques, and processes across artistic disciplines.
  • Critical understanding and reflection on own work and influences from other artists.

Assessment Breakdown

  • Supporting Studies
  • Research and analysis of primary and secondary sources.
  • Documentation of creative processes and technical experimentation.
  • Final Outcome
  • A completed piece that reflects a personal response to the chosen theme.

Component 2: Externally-set Assignment (50%)

Assessment Format

Externally set, externally marked

Skills Assessed

  • Development of personal response to a set theme.
  • Practical experimentation and creative problem-solving.
  • Presentation of a final outcome within a supervised 10-hour examination.

Assessment Breakdown

  • Supporting Studies – Research, experimentation, and planning.
  • Final Outcome – A personal and meaningful response, completed under timed conditions.
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