Middlesbrough college sustains History of Art subject

The Northern School of Art in Middlesbrough is helping to sustain History of Art in the North-East at a time of declining national availability.

Only 80 schools in England currently offer the subject, according to research by the Association for Art History commissioned by the Courtauld Institute of Art.

History of Art A-level student Gemma was inspired by the subject to enrol on the School's Foundation Diploma course (Image: Supplied)

Katie Wood, an art and design lecturer at The Northern School of Art who teaches the course at its Newport Road campus, said: "Knowing how rare this opportunity is makes me incredibly proud that we’re able to offer the subject here.

"I teach both the practical and theoretical sides of this fascinating subject and the mix of hands-on creativity with analytical and research-driven learning creates a vibrant, dynamic environment where students are excited to engage, push themselves and truly thrive."

The subject, officially titled Art and Design: Critical and Contextual Studies, combines practical studio work with in-depth analysis of art’s historical, social, political, and economic context.

The Northern School of Art Art & Design lecturer Katie Wood, left, who teaches the History of Art A-level course (Image: Supplied)

It explores the ways in which art reflects and shapes society, from the Italian Renaissance through to contemporary forms.

The course has been taught for more than 20 years at The Northern School of Art and its predecessor, Cleveland College of Art and Design (CCAD).

It offers students the chance to specialise in areas of personal interest, such as Greek mythology, 16th-century haute couture, or exhibition curation through 3D design.

In 2025, 45 per cent of students achieved A*-B grades in their final A2 exams, while 67 per cent achieved high grades at AS level.

The Northern School of Art's Newport Road campus in Middlesbrough is rated Outstanding by Ofsted (Image: Supplied)

Many students say the course has broadened their understanding of art and society.

Ferne, 16, from Durham, said: "Studying History of Art A-level has inspired a passion for art for me.

"I really love being able to appreciate Old Masters.

"It’s given me the freedom to learn about history in a different way."

Phoebe, 17, from Ingleby Barwick, said: "I love photography and art, so it made sense to study History of Art too.

"It’s a real plus that the School offers it, as nowhere else locally does."

Students have also praised the course’s depth and relevance to creative practice.

Flora, 16, said: "It’s definitely my favourite subject. Everything links back to art."

Lucy, also 16, said: "It has made me think differently and given me more insight into my creative work."

The course challenges common misconceptions about the scope of art history.

Ellanor, 16, said: "The subject really opens your mind.

"There is a preconception that art history is just about studying the Old Masters – but two minutes ago was history."

Second-year student Gemma said the subject had helped her decide on her future career.

She said: "We looked at the history of fashion design and it inspired an interest in textile design.

"I have enrolled onto the Foundation course at the School so that I can study textiles in more depth."

Rob Kane, vice principal (further education) at The Northern School of Art, said: "By combining theory and practice, we are providing students with access to a rare and inspiring A-level subject, helping to widen cultural horizons and open doors into higher education and the creative industries.

"This proves that world-class creative education can thrive far beyond London and the South East."

Learning outside the classroom is a key part of the course, enhanced by museum and gallery visits as well as talks from visiting lecturers and industry professionals.

Further information about The Northern School of Art’s History of Art A-level is available at its website.