Graphic Design

Graphic Design Learning Journey

Graphic Design 

Graphic Design lessons are all about exploring and experimenting with the design components and working towards achieving an outcome for a design brief. Students will primarily learn through project focused work, that will encourage them to explore the use of the designer’s toolkit while following the design process to understand how graphic design products are produced.  

Students will be taught to recognise the needs of the brief, acquire knowledge through focused research tasks, and embark on a development process that sees them refine their first drafts and turn them into a final tight design. To support their journey, they will be introduced to a range of skills, techniques and approaches while working with different tools, materials and resources including the use of computer-aided design. Furthermore, they will be exposed to a collection of inspirational sources from the work of recognised designers and existing products to help stimulate their ideas and help them develop their own style.  

Beyond the project work, students will explore the typical work carried out by professionals within the industry and understand the requirements for a host of different careers. Students will be shown how designers present their work to prospective clients and how they are able to promote themselves effectively in the competitive world of graphic design. Students will finish the course with a creative flare, eye for detail and problem solving mentality which are highly transferable in many lines of design and non-design related industries.  

Key Stage 3  

In Key Stage 3 we emphasise on introducing the students to a design brief and the requirements needed to produce a successful outcome. Specific research / knowledge-based tasks allow the students to make informed decisions that influence their own ideas. The students are exposed to a range of materials, processes and manufacturing techniques to support Design & Technology as a subject, allowing them to develop a wider understanding and crossover of skills within the subject.  

Key Stage 4 

In Key Stage 4 we emphasise the need to explore and experiment with the design components within a range of projects that look at packaging, publishing, advertising, fashion, bespoke design and more. Students will also develop their ability to analysis the work of other designers in detail and learn to appreciate how the design components have been used to produce an effective outcome. The skills and knowledge delivered over the duration of the course will allow the students to maximise their potential in the non-exam assessment (NEA) which makes up 60% of their final grade, and a written knowledge-based exam (EA) which makes up the remaining 40%. 

Useful Links & Resources 

Specifications: NCFE Graphic Design Specification 
Useful links: KS3 Bitesize Design Technology