This course is for those who wish to gain a practical and theoretical understanding of photographic practice with a view to possible progression into higher level study. In year 1: coursework portfolio - students are introduced to the fundamentals aspects of photography and produce a portfolio of work from a given brief. Controlled assignment - students select one starting point from an early release question paper and are given a minimum of three weeks to plan and prepare ideas. Students then undertake a five hour controlled period to realise their intentions/outcomes. In year 2: personal investigation - students submit one personal project that has personal significance. This investigation includes a 1500/2000-word personal study. Controlled assignment - students select one starting point from an early release question paper and are given a minimum of three weeks to plan and prepare ideas. Students then undertake a fifteen hour controlled period to realise their intentions/outcomes. They may progress to higher education to study a programme such as BA (Hons) photography. Alternatively they may find employment in a relevant field.