Marlborough Boys’ College Marlborough Boys’ College

NCEA L3 Painting A

PTG3A
Course Description Recommended Prior Learning

This course is open entry for Semester A. However, some level of interest or understanding of Art and painting expertise would be an advantage.


Level 3 Painting - Semester A (Code: PTG3A)  - UE List A approved   

This is a course designed for students keen to further develop their existing Painting and general art skills. It is an advanced course where painting skills in media such as acrylic and oil paint are carefully honed towards Merit and Excellence. Students may also choose to upskill in digital painting.  

Mixed media and some sculpture are also encouraged as students explore their choice of ideas. Observational and freehand drawing skills extended and students may also wish to draw digitally. 

The painting process will support the development of research and higher order thinking skills. Students will choose their own ideas, conceptual premise and theme to explore in this course. 


Panel 2 of a Level 3 folio submission related to an identical twin finding their individual identity.

  In Semester B (PTG3B), a 14 credit, 3 panel folio may be produced by those who are choosing Semester A and B (PTG3A + PTG3B) The planning and successful production of the external folio will allow for 'course endorsement'.           

With teacher guidance, every student will produce their own range of ideas and artworks. It will often reflect their interests and aspirations.

Level 3 Painting - A senior student researching and developing ideas in his workbook.

Each folio is unique and the student programme is personalized to the suit the individual. It is their ideas and conceptual journey which must be supported by the kaiako / teacher.

Scholarship, an exam beyond Level 3, is available in this discipline; Painting. Students will 'opt in' and gain regular support and guidance. This is available for anyone who is keen to do what it takes to succeed in a Visual Arts Scholarship submission. We have had many Excellences, Scholarships and Outstanding Scholarships over the recent years. The 'exam' is completed concurrently with the Level 3 years work. Essentially all the gathered workbook information is distilled down to eight A3 pages of inter-connected essence which are submitted in November. (an example page is below)



Course Overview

Semester A
Semester A
– 8 credits - Internals only (3.2 - 4 credits, 3.3 - 4 credits) will be offered.
This is available as a stand-alone 'taster course' or as a gateway to the 14 credit folio (External) and other Level 3 Visual Arts courses.

Students who wish to complete the 14-credit folio (3.4) will need to also select Semester B. (PTG3A + PTG3B)
This enables the possibility of course endorsement.

Learning Areas:

Arts - Mātauranga Toi, Year 13 (NCEA Level 3)


Career Pathways

Animator/Digital Artist, Diversional and Recreational Therapist, Artist, Boat Builder, Tattoo Artist, Fashion Designer, Graphic Designer, Interior Designer, Painter and Decorator, Conservator, Jeweller, Make-up Artist, Curator, Graphic Pre-press Worker, Visual Merchandiser, Exhibition and Collections Technician, Industrial Spray Painter, Signmaker, Garment Technician


Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

Contribution to take home components is expected. This will include specialist papers and folio cardboards.