Gaining print skills with Braeview Academy
Pupils achieve a new printmaking qualification
We've been working on an exciting printing project with Braeview Academy to help pupils achieve an SQA qualification.
In 2024 we worled on a pilot project with pupils from the school. The key aim was for them to learn a number of new printmaking techniques at DCA, resulting in finished prints that would count towards their SQA Art & Design Printmaking: SCQF Level 5.
In January this year, we welcomed 32 more Braeview Academy pupils from S3, who spent three days at DCA with our Learning and Print Studio teams. Here we share a look at the processes they explored and some of their finished prints.
Published
Lego Dot Printing
More about the SQA Art & Design Printmaking qualification
This qualification is all about developing knowledge and understanding of different print techniques through experimenting and exploring the creative potential of a variety of printmaking processes. To achieve the qualification, pupils are required to produce a portfolio of experimental and finished prints.
With our state-of-the-art Print Studio and inspiring Create Space, DCA provided an engaging environment for pupils to do just that. Pupils enjoyed the opportunity to work in a professional space and get advice from knowledgeable print artists and staff.
Screen Printing
Printmaking processes
For their three days of printmaking, we concentrated on the techniques of monotype through Gellli printing, Lego Dot printing, screen printing using paper stencils and etching with paper plates.
These processes supported learning about the visual elements of line, colour, texture, tone, composition. They allowed pupils to combine a mix of quick one-step techniques and longer, multi-step processes.
Pupils came ready with life drawings of cupcakes, skulls, trainers, drink cans, peppers and more, and turned them into wonderfully varied prints.
Etching and Gelli Printing
Feedback
This was a hugely successful project, with all of the pupils achieving their SCQF Level 5 based on the prints made at DCA. We also got some great feedback from the teachers and pupils involved. Here's a selection:
It was fun and I liked working in a proper place. It was a really good experience. Screen printing was very satisfying...
I liked how we could use stamps and things onto the Gelli print. We were allowed to experiment and paint. It was creative and fun.
I didn’t like the etching to start with... However the results were really COOL so it made up for the time it took to make it.
I enjoyed the Lego print the most.. I think all pupils should do it because it was fun and good working with professionals.
The pupils just didn’t realise that they could make prints of this quality – we simply can’t do all of these techniques in school. And to be able to see the results in the finished prints so quickly - their work is amazing! They have learnt so much about terms like tone through the etching and learnt so much about career possibilities just by being in DCA building.Jill McFarlane PT Art & Design
On display at DCA
As well as counting towards their qualification, the pupils' work was also displayed on the walls of Gallery 1 as part of our Spring Holiday Pop-up.
Their Lego Dot prints, Gelli prints and screen prints were on show and it was great to see them all together, showing the different outcomes that were achieved from the different printing methods.
Thanks to all the pupils, teachers and staff involved in this project. It's a great example of how we can work with schools on raising attainment and delivering key aspects of the curriculum. Find out more about our work with schools below.
