Art and Design Level 3 (24/25)

This course is aimed at students who enjoy a broad range of 2 and 3D art & design activities and want to learn new techniques and processes. You will be encouraged to channel your creativity with support and guidance from experienced and talented staff. Projects start with observational drawing from a range of subjects, including working from the life figure. Study areas include printmaking, visual communications, surface design, moving image, photography, ceramics and sculpture. Alongside practical work you will look at the history of Art and Design in Contextual Studies and learn to use research to improve your own work. During year 2, you will be encouraged to develop specialist interests.

4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include a creative subject and English Language and Maths

There may be some additional costs to cover course trips, these will be discussed when you start your year of study. You may also need to purchase some art materials as you progress through the course.

The Art and Design pathways and levels are designed to help you gain confidence, establish a solid foundation of knowledge, and develop your core creative skills. In addition to a portfolio of work, on successful completion you will be awarded a nationally recognised qualification issued by University of the Arts London (UAL).

Teaching is delivered via guided sessions in studios and workshops, alongside research activities and gallery visits. There is a practical emphasis on skills development, experimentation, exploration and problem solving as well as a written element when looking at an artist's work. Demonstrations will be given and you will work on specially set tasks that help you to understand techniques and practice skills development. Assessment is ongoing through tutorials, peer reviews and written assignments. You will be given feedback at various stages to improve performance. At the end of the first year, for unit 1, there is an externally assessed element graded at pass, merit, or distinction. This grade will contribute to the grade of the Final Major Project at the end of year 2 (unit 2). From this course, you will gain a solid foundation of knowledge, develop independence, resilience and develop your core creative skills.

After the first year you can continue to study your chosen pathway on an Extended Diploma for a second year to further develop your art and design skills. For those who complete Level 3, it's possible to progress onto the Foundation Art and Design or directly onto undergraduate (university) qualifications or find employment within the diverse creative industry. Students have progressed onto degree courses such as illustration, animation, fine art, 3D model making, sculpture, interior design, ceramics, fashion and textiles and photography.