Sketching out the new GCSE in art and design
Sarah Watson, Qualifications Manager, outlines the new GCSE in art and design and considers those key areas of change that teachers and learners can expect to see in the new specification.
From September 2025, the new GCSE in art and design will be available for teaching for the first time, reflecting how and what young people have learnt under the Curriculum for Wales.
The freedom to explore, be curious, and trust the creative process is central to the expressive arts area of learning and experience within the Curriculum for Wales. In the new GCSE, learners can choose to focus on a range of artistic pathways, including art, craft and design, fine art, graphic communication, textiles, 3-D design or photography. Whichever pathway they follow, learners will be inspired by a wide range of artists and designers, experimenting with artistic techniques and digital technology to hone their creative skills.
Studying art can also enable learners to experience and develop their sense of cynefin. Wales boasts a vibrant hub of artistic talent, where diverse artists and designers push the boundaries of creativity and shape the big conversations. This new qualification has been designed to enable learners to be inspired by the influences around them, as well as exploring art and design on a global scale.
What is changing in the new GCSE Art and Design qualification?
The new GCSE retains those elements that work well in the existing GCSE.
Learners will continue to be assessed via two non-examination assessments; a portfolio worth 40% and a practical assignment worth 60%. These types of practical assessment provide valid and engaging ways for learners to demonstrate their creativity, explore personal areas of interest, and encourage learners to reflect on and refine their work.
What is changing is the way the new GCSE invites learners to reflect on the cross-cutting themes in the curriculum, including human rights, sustainability in art and design, and diverse perspectives and contributions including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.
Learners will also have the opportunity to learn about exciting career opportunities across the Welsh creative sectors and consider their future contribution to a vibrant culture in Wales
Supporting centres through change
Although many aspects of the new GCSE will be familiar to teachers, there is a wide range of support available to aid preparations to deliver the new qualification from this September.
WJEC has already delivered a number of ‘preparing to teach’ events, as well as subject-specific specification briefings. You can access recordings of the GCSE Art and Design briefing here. WJEC has also launched its new digital resources website and you can find the resources relating to the new art and design qualification here.