Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design
About The Course
This course is for those wanting to develop their art skills further through a wide range of art and design mediums. In Year 1, our students are introduced to the design process through a series of exploratory sessions and practical projects. Our students then apply their skills to design projects that cover graphics, textiles, photography and 3D.
These projects are underpinned with an insight into the work of artists and designers which develops students understanding of design principles and enabling the skills to visualise their ideas. In the second year, students choose technical pathways and build a portfolio for university applications or entry into the industry. The study programme culminates in an Art Show open to the public.
You will learn through a combination of workshops, practical/theory sessions, lectures, practical assignment work and regular reflective practice.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, maths and art (or a strong portfolio of creative work).
More information
- Progress to higher education, employment or apprenticeship.
- Approximately 45% of students enter higher education at the end of an extended diploma.
Some example units include:
- Graphics, techniques and technology
- Fine art, drawing and expressive mark-making
- Experimental photography
- Textiles and fashion visualisation
- Printmaking
- Design for advertising
- Small and large-scale 3D
At the interview, you will be asked to provide a portfolio of previous and current artwork that includes annotated studies of artists, mediums or techniques. There is a ‘studio fee’ payable at enrolment, this covers the cost of day-to-day specialist materials (e.g. inks, plaster, papers etc.) used during the exploratory stages of the study programme.
Uniform: You will need a washable apron and an old shirt to wear during practical projects. Avoid wearing your best shoes or trainers!
Your kit list is:
- A plastic toolbox – to store your art materials (please stick to rectangle toolboxes, not square storage boxes, as these don’t fit on our storage shelves). Max size: 40cm(L) x 21cm(W) x 20cm(H>)
- Derwent pencil set – set of 12 Graphic Medium (6B – 4H)
- Glue stick (Pritt Stick)
- A selection of black & coloured fine liners
- Watercolour set – palette or tubes depending on your preference (especially white)
- Acrylic paint starter set (primary colours)
- A selection of pointed paint brushes – small, medium, large
- USB SD Card reader
- SD card (16Gb or larger)
- Eraser
- Pencil sharpener
- Scissors for cutting paper
- A basic sewing set – with pins, needles, small scissors and threads (can be sourced at pound shops)
- Something to use as a water pot, a plastic cup or empty yoghurt pot or small dessert ramekin dish, this will need to fit in your toolbox for storage.
Optional ‘extras’:
- Posca Pen set
- Dressmaking pins
- Car wash sponge
You are expected to keep these resources stocked up. All Art & Design Students to pay an additional Studio Charge at Enrolment – this covers materials used in their exploratory lessons: paper, paint, ink, fabric, fabric dye, clay, wire, plaster etc.
Please note: Additional costs for materials may be required for all final outcomes and FMP’s or additional materials may need to be supplied by the Student.
- Level 3 90 Credit Subsidiary Diploma in Art and Design (Year 1)
- Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design (Year 2)
This course is very practical. Coursework is currently internally assessed. We assess in a variety of ways including sketchbook work, annotations, portfolio building, Q&A’s, presentations, video work and practical outcomes.
Our Level 3 students undertake two week’s industry placement during the December of their second year. You will be well-prepared to go out into the world of work through seminar exploration and skills development sessions and to a destination suited to your individual progression. You will also get to work on live projects with cross-college departments and external clients as part of our professional development sessions. We also invite visiting speakers to meet with you and to run specialist workshops.
