Summary

SGS is one of the few colleges in the region to have an extremely well-equipped darkroom, advanced digital facilities and a professional photographic studio. We also have highly skilled, passionate and practicing photographers who will guide you in your practical work and studies, enabling you to prepare a strong portfolio of work. Crucial to this course, and for broadening your experience, are group photography trips to various locations. This two-year, full-time course is for those who wish to explore a variety of approaches to photography whilst developing their creative thinking. As you progress through the course, you will begin to develop your own personal approach to photography, allowing you to build a strong portfolio of work. This course will develop your skills and confidence in presenting and discussing your work in preparation for university or industry. Alongside our dedicated staff, we boast an extremely well-equipped darkroom, advanced digital facilities and a professional photographic studio. Photography trips and opportunities to exhibit your work will further broaden your experience.

What will I study?

• Digital photography and editing
• Analogue photography and darkroom techniques
• Studio photography
• Sport and live action
• Film and animation
• Experimental photography, e.g. pinhole cameras and photograms
• Contextual studies
• Problem solving
• Evaluation and reflection
• Presentation and exhibition

How will I know how I am doing?

Project work is set with structured, achievable targets that are organised around practical assessment.

You will also discuss project work through group critiques with verbal feedback from tutors and peers. Regular tutorials and reviews will take place with your personal tutor to discuss targets and progress.

What do I need to join?

You will need to show passion, enthusiasm, commitment and have a portfolio of work to show at interview. You will need five GCSEs at grade 4, including English and/or Maths, or a Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design or Photography with merit or distinction grades, and a proven record of attendance and engagement in English and maths.

Maths & English

A key requirement for obtaining many jobs is to achieve a good standard of English and maths. Therefore learners that do not yet have a GCSE grade 4 (C) will be enrolled on either a GCSE or Functional Skills programme alongside their course.

Employability

We have a working studio where learners produce images for various clients, helping the learners to gain valuable experience and confidence in producing images to a professional standard.

Work Experience

Students are directed and supported to seek opportunities to experience a working environment relevant to their specialism, whether this is a live project set by industry, creative competitions or working for a local or national company.

What can I do next?

Most of our students go into higher education, apprenticeships or employment. Our students can progress onto the best degree courses in the country in every subject.

What are my career options?

A career in the arts is diverse and can include further study in photography, film-making or animation. You could find yourself as a fashion, documentary, portrait, landscape or wedding photographer or film-maker in the future. Many photographers become self-employed.