Key Facts

A Level + Creative Business Studies Pathway (Photography)

Are you interested in pursuing a career in the creative sector with a focus on entrepreneurship and enterprise? This exciting course brings together a range of practical photography skills with an understanding of the world of business. Students will study a Level 3 BTEC in Photography and an A Level in Business. Their Photography course will cover a broad range of disciplines from traditional light sensitive processes to digital photography. Within the College's specialist studios and workshops, students will develop their practical skills and expand their understanding of the world of photography through the study of others working in this field. For A Level Business, students will gain insight into the way businesses are run, from small scale start-ups to multinational organisations.

Creative thinking is necessary for business problem solving, and business intel is crucial for practicing creatives - this course combines them both!

  • Entry Requirements


    All A Levels require general criteria with a minimum of; 5 x GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 6 in Mathematics and English Language.

  • Course Content


    Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Photography:

    The first term allows you to gain a solid foundation of technical skills in analogue and digital photography, covering: camera controls, workflow and editing techniques in Lightroom as well as traditional darkroom practice. The second term you will be introduced to specialist studio lighting equipment and post-production image manipulation with Photoshop. Lessons are a mixture of lectures, practical workshops, group work and independent tasks. Learner work is generated through practical projects, briefs, workshops and engagement with industry, preparing them through the development of portfolios and materials for progression.

    AS Level in Business:

    Students will gain an understanding of how businesses are structured, what makes a business successful, how managers and leadership control decision making and the impact these decisions have on market performance, operational and financial performance.

    In year 2 students have the opportunity to complete the full Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Photography as well as the full A Level in Business.

  • Progression Next Steps


    The majority of students progress onto the 'top-up' year to complete a full Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Photography and a full A Level in Business.

    After completing two years at Level 3 most students progress to universities where they study a wide variety of degrees.

    For those students not wishing to progress to university, comprehensive support is provided to help them find alternatives such as employment or apprenticeships.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisers who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    While some materials and equipment are provided, you will be expected to pay for most of your own equipment and materials, much of which is available from the College shop. There will also be a number of trips and visits which will incur some costs. For further course specific information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Course Structure


    Compulsory:

    BTEC Art & Design (Photography)

    Plus one A Level : A Level in Business