Art and Design - Level 3 Extended Diploma

If you are interested in the visual arts, this course provides an opportunity to explore, develop and test your creativity with stimulating and demanding study. During the course, you will experiment with a wide variety of new materials allowing you to build your technical skills whilst developing your critical and contextual research skills.

You will learn a range of disciplines such as computer graphics, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, mixed media, photography and visual recording. Drawing and creativity are central to your study in the visual arts, which will be underpinned by an understanding of cultural and historical influences. You will also be introduced to relevant software to support you in your future career.

Day-to-day, you will engage in practical workshops, lectures, debates, gallery visits and independent research. You will learn new skills and develop experience using several specialist materials, techniques and processes. You will also develop your English and communication skills through contextual studies, ideas and concepts, and visual communication.

You will develop your creative potential while working on your own art application, exploration and realisation. When experimenting with specialist techniques and processes, you will improve your understanding of the visual language in art and design.

Each term you will work on several assignments, and will exhibit your practical work around the college through an end-of-year exhibition.

Extended Diplomas have two one-year programmes. You need to finish the first year before moving on to the second.

This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit Diploma. Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma. Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A Levels.

Topics covered can include:

• Introduction to visual language and research skills
• Introduction to critical and contextual awareness
• Introduction to materials, processes and technical skills
• Integrated approach to 2D and 3D problem solving
• Integrated approach to time-based problem solving
• Developing art and design projects

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language or Maths or an equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit or above
• A portfolio of your art and design work

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

The course is assessed throughout the year and with an end-of-course portfolio, as well as contribution to end-of-term student showcase exhibitions of work and a fashion show.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

This course will help you to move on to higher-level courses, such as a Bachelor of Arts, an apprenticeship or other employment.