March 2026 Art Update | Pearson qualifications

March 2026 Art update

Mon Mar 02 14:57:00 UTC 2026

Welcome to the March 2026 update from your Subject Advisor

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This month’s update brings together the latest news, key reminders, and practical support across our Art qualifications, to help you plan with confidence and keep creativity at the heart of your classroom.

To view the latest updates for your qualification, just click the section that matches what you teach.

 

   


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General Updates



The entry deadline for international centres for the May/June 2026 exam series closes on 21 March 2026.

Late entries will be charged from 22 March - make sure that you don't miss this deadline. 


The provisional exam timetables for 2027 will be available on our provisional timetables web page from Monday 2 February. The feedback window will run until Friday 20 March.


Please send any feedback to timetables@pearson.com 


Pearson has partnered with the UCL Centre for Research in Autism and Education (CRAE), to look at how neurotypical and neurodivergent (e.g. those who are autistic/have ADHD) students answer GCSE exam questions.

We hope this will allow us to make our exams more accessible for all students.

We would be very grateful if centres would consider taking part in the next phase of this very important project. 

 

   


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 GCSE and A Level Art and Design


Date GCSE and A Level Art and Design
2 January 2026 Release of the GCSE Component 2 externally set assignment (ESA)
1 February 2026 Release of the A Level Component 2 externally set assignment (ESA)
21 February 2026 Deadline for entries - late entry fees after this date
(international centre entry deadline is 21 March)
15 May 2026 Start of moderator visits
48 hours prior to
moderation visit
Marks submitted on Edexcel Online for visiting moderation
31 May 2026

International centres only:

Marks submitted on Edexcel Online for digital moderation 

Sampled work submitted on Learner Work Transfer

26 June 2026 End of moderator visits
13 August 2026 A Level Results day
20 August 2026 GCSE Results day
Pearson Edexcel Art and Design teacher group for GCSE, A Level and International GCSE Art and Design teachers. Run by your Subject Advisor Jaclyn Wiid.

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Do you teach GCSE or A level Art and Design?

Then this group was made for you. It’s a friendly, professional space where you can share ideas, swap tips, and ask those everyday teaching questions.

Whether you're after inspiration or support, this is a great place to collaborate with others and get the latest news.

The Future of GCSE Art & Design: Have your say

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Following the Curriculum and Assessment Review, we’re inviting GCSE Art & Design teachers to take part in a discussion about what the qualification should look like next

  • 19 March
  • 23 March
  • 24 March 
Self-paced GCSE Art and Design coursework marking training

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Are you looking to strengthen your understanding of the assessment objectives and improve consistency of your internal marking?

This free online coursework marking training supports confident application of the assessment grids for Components 1 and 2.

Work through the content at your own pace and revisit key guidance as needed.


How can digital tools transform creativity in Photography?

Watch this recording from our training event, delivered by our credible specialist in Photography.

The training covers how digital tools can enhance creativity and support student progress in Photography, exploring:

  • strategies for capturing and presenting photographic evidence
  • using digital sketchbooks to document the creative journey
  • integrating apps and platforms that align with assessment objectives

Whether you're new to digital workflows or looking to refine your approach, this session will offer hands-on ideas, real classroom examples, and time-saving tips to help you confidently bring Photography into the digital age.

From Lens to Screen: Digital Evidence and Sketchbooks in Photography (1:24:54)

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As centres draw nearer to the 10-/15-hour period of sustained focus under exam conditions, these resources will be helpful.

Photography Component 2 bitesize video (7:50)

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GCSE Art and Design Component 2 assessment bitesize video (4:29)

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A Level Art and Design Component 2 assessment bitesize video (4:26)

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Art UK Exam Support

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Art UK created a resource that supports teachers and students by linking the Art & Design Component 2 themes to curated artworks from their free database for quick, focused inspiration.

And you can even create your own curations for free to support your students!

Art UK GCSE Exam Support

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Art UK A Level Exam Support

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To support centres with the JCQ requirement to inform candidates of their centre-assessed marks, we have created guidance which explains the process and outlines resources you can use to support.


For May/June 2026, your moderation sample will be confirmed once your marks have been formally submitted, and the sample will now always include the highest and lowest marked candidates.

For subject-specific guidance, please see our support article that outlines key information for each qualification.


Explore the new exemplars shared during this year’s face‑to‑face GCSE and A level Art and Design training.

The exemplars will be added to the Exemplar Galleries over the coming months. Until then, you can access them through these face‑to‑face training packs to support confident delivery and accurate assessment.

 

   


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 International GCSE Art and Design


Date International GCSE Art and Design
2 January 2026 Online release of the Component 2 externally set assignment (ESA)
21 March 2026 Deadline for entries - late entry fees after this date
31 May 2026 All work submitted digitally on Learner Work Transfer for external assessment
20 August 2026 International GCSE Results day
Pearson Edexcel Art and Design teacher group for GCSE, A Level and International GCSE Art and Design teachers. Run by your Subject Advisor Jaclyn Wiid.

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Do you teach International GCSE Art and Design?

Then this group was made for you. It’s a friendly, professional space where you can share ideas, swap tips, and ask those everyday teaching questions.

Whether you're after inspiration or support, this is a great place to collaborate with others and get the latest news.


Upcoming live events include:

  • 23 March - Presentation and Submission of Digital Portfolios
  • 1 July - Curriculum Planning and Formative Assessment
International GCSE Art and Design: Presentation and Submission of Digital Portfolios

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International GCSE Art and Design: Curriculum Planning and Formative Assessment

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Watch the recordings of our Getting Ready to Teach Module 1 and 2 events.

Module 1 focuses on teaching the course and will give you an understanding of the content of the qualification and how to cover it, course/lesson planning, understanding the assessment and preparing students for it, and a brief overview of support from Pearson available to teachers.

Module 2 will give you an understanding of how the content is assessed by reviewing the assessment objectives and mark schemes, practise applying the mark schemes using exemplar student work, as well as an understanding of how marks were determined.

International GCSE Art & Design Getting Ready to Teach - Module 1 (1:24:31)

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International GCSE Art & Design Getting Ready to Teach - Module 2 (1:43:02)

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How can digital tools transform creativity in Photography?

Watch this recording from our training event, delivered by our credible specialist in Photography.

The training covers how digital tools can enhance creativity and support student progress in Photography, exploring:

  • strategies for capturing and presenting photographic evidence
  • using digital sketchbooks to document the creative journey
  • integrating apps and platforms that align with assessment objectives

Whether you're new to digital workflows or looking to refine your approach, this session will offer hands-on ideas, real classroom examples, and time-saving tips to help you confidently bring Photography into the digital age.

From Lens to Screen: Digital Evidence and Sketchbooks in Photography (1:24:54)

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As centres draw nearer to the 10-hour period of sustained focus under exam conditions, these resources will be helpful.

International GCSE Art and Design Component 2 bitesize video (9:48)

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Photography Component 2 bitesize video (7:50)

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 A Level History of Art


Date A Level History of Art
21 February 2026 Deadline for entries - late entry fees after this date
18 May 2026 Paper 1: Visual analysis and themes (PM)
2 June 2026 Paper 2: Periods (AM)
13 August 2026 A Level Results day


Watch the recordings from our Paper 1 and Paper 2 training events to support your exam preparation.

A Level History of Art: Tackling Visual Analysis in Paper 1 (1:01:51)

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A Level History of Art: Meeting the Assessment Objectives in Paper 2 (58:31)

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Association for Art History Webinars and Events

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What’s on in art history?

Looking for talks, conferences or online events to spark new thinking?

The Association for Art History's calendar brings together art history events from across the UK and beyond – from free webinars and public lectures to research seminars and career-focused sessions.

It’s open to everyone, whether you’re studying, teaching, researching, or simply curious. New events are added regularly, so it’s a great place to stay connected to the wider art history community.

Explore upcoming events from the Association for Art History


The latest episode of The Pre‑Raphaelite Society Podcast welcomes Dr Alex Round, who discusses her PhD research and reflects on the idea of “sisterhood” in Pre‑Raphaelite studies. The conversation celebrates women’s networks in art history and offers thoughtful advice for anyone considering doctoral research.

Listen to the Sisters in Art – A Celebration episode

Free Art History HPQ from Art History Link-Up and The Courtauld

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Applications are now open for a free Art History HPQ for state school students in Years 9–10, taught by Art History Link‑Up at The Courtauld, Somerset House.

Students explore art through history, develop independent research skills, and gain a qualification worth up to half a GCSE. Sessions run on Sundays from 19 April to 28 June.

Application deadline: 1 April

 

   


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BTEC Art and Design



BTEC Tech Awards

May/June Series BTEC Tech Award Art and Design Practice
12 January 2026 Release of Component 2 externally assessed task 
21 February 2026 Deadline for Component 1 and 2 entries - late entry fees after this date
1 April 2026 Start of moderator visits
13 April 2026 Learner Work Transfer (LWT) available
15 May 2026 Deadline to upload Component 2 work on LWT for external assessment
48 hours prior to moderation visit Deadline to submit Component 1 marks on Edexcel Online for visiting moderation
15 June 2025 End of moderator visits
26 June 2022 Deadline for amending marks following moderator feedback where necessary for internal assessments (optional)
14 August 2026 Restricted release of results to centres
20 August 2026 Release of results to learners


BTEC L3 Nationals and L2 SKills

May/June Series BTEC L3 Nationals and L2 Skills
20 March 2026 Deadline for June 2026 entries of Units 1, 2, 6, and 7 for BTEC L3 Nationals in Art and Design (2016) - late entry fees after this date
15 May 2026 Deadline for Standards Verification sampling 
15 June 2026 Deadline for Standards Verification additional sampling (if applicable)
5 July 2026 Deadline to submit results for certification on August results days
5 August 2026 Restricted release of results to centres
13 August 2026 Release of results to learners


BTEC International

May/June Series BTEC International
within 60 days of enrolment at the centre Deadline for registrations - late registration fees after this date
June 2025 Release of Pearson-set Assignments (PSA) - valid for 1 year after publish date
5 July 2026 Deadline to submit results for certification on August results days (ie. for learners applying to HEIs via UCAS)
Immediately after completion Deadline to submit results for certification for non-UK-academic year programmes


BTEC Higher Nationals

May/June Series BTEC Higher Nationals
November 2025
- February 2026
Contact made with your EE
November 2025
- March 2026
Two assignment briefs sent to your EE for review 
May - July 2026 External Examination sampling - completed by 30 July
August 2026 Students receive qualification


BTEC Quality Assurance

  • Roles and Responsibilities of the Lead Internal Verifier (UK centres) - 10 March, 7 May, 15 June
  • Roles and Responsibilities of the Quality Nominee (UK centres) - 2 March, 29 April, 18 June


BTEC International

  • Internal Verification and preparing for the EE for BTEC International Level 2 and 3 qualifications - 6 April
  • Holistic Assessment Planning and Assignment writing for BTEC International Level 3 in Art and Design - 10 April
  • Introduction to Teaching the International BTEC Level 2 in Art and Design - 13 April
  • An Introduction to the Principles of Quality Assurance BTEC International Level 2 and Level 3 Qualifications - 13 April, 20 April
  • Introduction to Teaching the International BTEC Level 3 in Art and Design - 14 April, 2 June
  • Grading Standardisation Workshop for BTEC International Level 2 and 3 Art and Design - 21 April


BTEC Higher Nationals

  • Intro to Teaching and Assessing for the new (2023) Creative Media and Art and Design Suite - International Centres - 4 March, 16 April
  • Introduction to teaching and assessing the new Creative Arts Suite - 23 April, 15 July
  • Internal Verification and preparing for EE RQF BTEC Higher Nationals - UK Centres - 28 April
  • Internal Verification and preparing for ISV RQF BTEC Higher Nationals - International centres - 30 April


All externally assessed units and components will be available on the relevant qualification Secure Tests site on the dates outlined in the Key Dates section.

Please note that these materials are gold padlocked secure materials so can only be downloaded by Exams Officers.


The BTEC International Level 2 suite of Art and Design qualifications has been extended, meaning you can continue delivering the qualifications you know with confidence.

The following qualifications now have a final registration date of 31 August 2030 and a final certification date of 31 August 2033:

  • Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Award in Art and Design (120 GLH) (Award code 25904) 
  • Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Certificate in Art and Design (240 GLH) (Award code 25438) 
  • Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Extended Certificate in Art and Design (360 GLH) (Award code 25906)
BTEC Tech Award Art and Design Practice teacher group. Run by your Subject Advisor Jaclyn Wiid.

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Do you teach BTEC Tech Award Art and Design Practice?

Then check out our new Facebook group, a friendly, professional space where you can share ideas, swap tips, and ask those everyday teaching questions.

Whether you're after inspiration or support, this is a great place to collaborate with others and get the latest news.


For Summer 2026, your moderation sample will be confirmed once your marks have been formally submitted, and the sample will now always include the highest and lowest marked candidates.

For subject-specific guidance, please see our support article that outlines key information for each qualification.


Stay up to date with the latest news for BTEC qualifications.

 

   


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 T Level Craft and Design



This termly T Level Network Event is for existing providers of Pearson T Levels or those who are planning to offer any Pearson T Level in the future. We will cover updates and changes for academic year 2026/27 and beyond, guidance for delivery and assessment. 

There will be an opportunity to network with other providers, share best practice for delivery and curriculum planning, and to ask questions of Pearson Product Managers whether you have general T Level or sector-specific queries, e.g. related to delivery, assessment or specifications.


This session will give a full overview of the moderation process for the Occupational Specialisms (OS) for Media, Broadcast & Production and Craft & Design. The live session will take you through:

  • The moderation process 
  • Assessment windows 
  • Marking the OS 
  • Understanding mark grids 
  • Resources 

The session will also include a Q& A where you can put your questions to the experts for further support. 


All materials for the externally set tasks will be available on the relevant qualification Secure Tests site on the dates outlined in the Key Dates section.

Please note that these materials are gold padlocked secure materials so can only be downloaded by Exams Officers.


Administrative Support Guides
 


Check out the latest updates on T Levels and sign up for future updates.

 

   


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 Helpful Resources and Inspiration



March is Women’s History Month and, in celebration, this Art Fund resource highlights exhibitions across the UK that put women’s stories centre stage.

It’s a rich starting point for exploring women’s creativity, influence, and lived experiences through museum and gallery collections.

Beatriz González. Telón de la móvil y cambiante naturaleza (Backdrop of a Moving and Changing Nature), 1978. © Beatriz González. Photo - © Frédéric Deval – Mairie de Bordea

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Join Art UKs 10th birthday art competition!

Art UK is celebrating by inviting schools and families to get creative. Ask your learners to create an artwork on the theme of a ‘10th Birthday’ and share it for the chance to win a special prize.

Entries close 9am on 27 March.

‘The Birthday Party’ by John Petts (1914–1991) © the artist’s estate. 📷 @librarywales

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Do you know a young person who loves art and enjoys writing?

Take part in Write on Art, the national writing programme by Art UK and Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art for young people (13–19 years old).

Twelve successful applicants will be invited to attend a day-long Young Art Writers Workshop at Royal College of Art in Autumn 2026 and have their work published.

Young people are invited to write 400–600 words about an artwork of their choice on Art UK’s website.

Applications close 10 am on 21 July.

Paul Mellon Centre - Write on Art

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Art UK - Write on Art

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Choose from one of three categories:

✍️ Creative writing – an imaginative and expressive response to an artwork

💬 Review – a critical commentary about an artwork or installation

📝 Essay – a critical analysis of an artwork supported by evidence

 

   


 

Thank you!

I hope you found this update useful. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch using the contact details below. 

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