Graphic Design

This unit introduces what graphic design is in the modern world and the exciting career paths it offers. Students will explore how design influences communication and culture, learn about key historical and contemporary designers, and discover online platforms that support creativity and professional growth.

Topics Covered
What is Graphic Design?
A modern definition covering print, digital, branding, UI/UX, and motion design.

Design Through Time
A brief history of visual communication with influential movements and designers.

Specialisms in the Industry
Overview of design fields including editorial, packaging, web, and more.

Creative Networks & Resources
Introduction to platforms like Behance, Dribbble, and professional communities.

Learning objectives

• Define graphic design in a current context
• Recognise key historic and modern designers
• Understand the main areas of graphic design practice
• Use online tools and communities to support your creative journey

This unit introduces students to the core elements and principles of design and how to apply them through practical, digital exercises. Students will start to think visually and begin working in Adobe Photoshop, learning the basics of vector-based design.

Topics Covered
Design Foundations
Key elements (line, shape, colour, space) and principles (balance, contrast, hierarchy, etc.)

Practical Studies
Simple visual exercises to explore composition and layout.

Software Introduction
Basic tools and functions in Adobe Photoshop for creating vector graphics.

Learning Objectives

• Understand and apply design elements and principles
• Use design vocabulary to communicate ideas
• Begin creating digital work using Adobe Illustrator™
• Make visual decisions with purpose and clarity

This unit introduces the fundamentals of typography and its vital role in design. Students will explore the history of letterforms, key terminology, and how to use type creatively and effectively. You’ll begin applying typographic principles using Adobe Illustrator turning text into impactful visual elements.

• Evolution of the alphabet and letterforms
• Type classifications, anatomy, and terminology
• Basic typographic exercises and type manipulation
• Typographic tools in Adobe Illustrator

Learning Objectives

• Understand the origins and structure of type
• Use correct typography terms with confidence
• Recognise and classify major type families
• Apply core typographic skills using Illustrator

Summary
This unit explores the essential role of colour in visual communication. Students will learn the foundations of colour theory, key terminology, and how to use colour purposefully in design. Through guided exercises and digital tools in Adobe Illustrator students will build confidence in applying colour effectively across vector and raster graphics.

Topics Covered

• Core concepts in colour theory (hue, value, saturation, harmony)
• Colour vocabulary and communication
• Digital colour studies using provided templates
• Using colour tools, filters, and effects in Adobe Illustrator™

Learning Objectives

• Understand how colour affects perception and meaning
• Use correct colour terminology in a design context
• Apply basic colour theory in practical design tasks
• Manipulate colour using Illustrator’s core tools and features

In this unit, students will explore how photography, advertising, and branding come together in visual communication. You’ll gain an overview of photography essentials, learn how graphic designers collaborate with photographers, and how to source and use stock imagery effectively. Students will be introduced to Adobe Photoshop for basic photo editing and will create impactful ad layouts that reflect cohesive brand identity.

Key Topics

• Photography tools and techniques for designers
• Working with and sourcing photography (including stock)
• Core principles of advert and layout design
• Intro to Adobe Photoshop for photo editing and manipulation

Learning Objectives

• Understand photography basics, resolution, and file formats
• Use Photoshop to crop, enhance, and manipulate images
• Apply visual branding principles to advert design
• Create strong photographic compositions and ad layouts for portfolio use

In this unit, students will apply their skills to design typographic systems the foundation of dynamic logotypes and wordmarks. You’ll be guided through the creative process of developing, evaluating, and refining concepts into polished, meaningful designs. Emphasis will be placed on manipulating letterforms for clarity and impact. You’ll also master advanced layer management techniques in Adobe Illustrator, learning how to organize, blend, and adjust layers for a smooth and professional workflow, especially in complex projects.

Key Topics

• The creative process for concept development
• Letterform manipulation and typographic refinement
• Building unified and dynamic typographic marks
• Professional layer management and workflow in Adobe Illustrator

Learning Outcomes

• Understand and apply the creative design process
• Generate, critique, and refine typographic concepts
• Design legible, expressive typographic logos and wordmarks
• Manage layers effectively to streamline complex designs

In this unit, students will master core principles of composition and layout using Adobe InDesign. You’ll create dynamic typographic layouts, gaining confidence designing for print, web, and video formats. Explore the difference between destructive and non-destructive editing through techniques like Smart Objects and adjustment layers, ensuring flexible and professional workflows in multi-page projects such as magazines and brochures.

Key Topics

• Composition fundamentals and layout principles
• Typographic hierarchy and dynamic text arrangement
• Non-destructive editing workflows (Smart Objects, adjustment layers)
• Multi-page design and project planning using Adobe InDesign

Learning Outcomes

• Apply advanced concepts of proportion and balance in layouts
• Combine diverse elements into cohesive visual systems
• Manipulate typography to enhance dynamic layouts
• Develop multi-page projects like magazines or brochures
• Navigate Adobe InDesign confidently for complex layouts

At our school, we embrace the power of AI to boost creativity and efficiency. In this unit, students will discover how AI-driven tools are revolutionizing graphic design workflows—making tasks faster, smarter, and more intuitive. From Adobe’s Auto Selection and Select Subject features to AI-powered background removal and style automation, you’ll learn how to streamline repetitive tasks, giving you more time to focus on creative problem-solving and innovative design.

Key Topics

• Overview of AI applications in graphic design
• Using AI tools for selection, masking, and background removal
• Automating repetitive editing tasks
• Enhancing creative workflows with AI-assisted features

Learning Outcomes

• Understand how AI is reshaping design processes
• Confidently use AI-powered tools to speed up workflows
• Automate routine tasks to maximize creative focus
• Integrate AI tools within Adobe Creative Cloud applications for professional results

In this final unit, students will focus on refining and completing a personal graphic design portfolio in both print and digital formats, showcasing skills developed through industry-relevant projects. You’ll create a cohesive personal brand identity and receive guidance on transitioning into the design industry, including working with clients and colleagues. This module also covers identifying audience needs, evaluating content relevance, and understanding the role of creativity and innovation in design. Key course concepts and the creative process will be revisited to prepare you confidently for your professional career.ry.

Key Topics

• Exploring graphic design career opportunities
• Creating a personal identity system (logo, typography, colour palette)
• Building and curating a professional portfolio with consistent design systems
• Best practices for professional growth and self-promotion

Learning Outcomes

• Understand key career paths and job resources in graphic design
• Design a strong personal brand identity
• Develop a professional portfolio showcasing your skills and style
• Adopt healthy professional habits and strategies for ongoing growth