Creative Mastery No. 1 ( GCSE / A - level)

This course is designed for students beginning their GCSE or A-Level studies, or preparing early for advanced creative work. It follows a holistic, student-centred approach, focusing on nurturing individual strengths, interests, and ideas. Using a project-based learning model, students are encouraged to take creative ownership, connecting research, experimentation, and final outcomes in meaningful ways.

Students complete approximately 60% of their total coursework during this first phase. They develop ideas and technical skills by experimenting with a wide range of materials and techniques in a professional artist studio. Materials and methods are chosen based on each student’s personal direction and project goals. Options include pencil drawing, charcoal, watercolour, acrylic painting, gouache, oil painting, linocut and a variety of printmaking techniques, clay and other sculptural methods, assemblage, collage, photography, and digital media. Sketchbooks are used to document visual research, observation, experimentation, and reflection, helping students build a strong connection between thinking and making.

The course emphasizes creative thinking, technical mastery, material sensitivity, and expressive communication, laying a strong foundation for independent artistic development. Students work within a small, supportive group of like-minded, art-loving peers from the home education community, building friendships and creative confidence as they grow.