Art and Design - Level 1 Diploma (UAL)

The UAL Awarding Body Level 1 Award in Art, Design and Media is designed to provide an opportunity for those with an interest in art, design and media to explore materials, methods and processes that support many art, design and media activities, and to begin to develop related skills. The qualification structure provides a linked introduction to broader art, design and media contexts. It is intended that this initial experience of art, design and media activity will provide students with an early test of their commitment and interest in the subject. It will also measure their ability to sustain a focused exploration of the skills, knowledge and understanding for progression within art, design and media education. Study for the qualification is not time-constrained, but will normally be over a period of three to five weeks.

The Level 1 Award in Art, Design and Media can be used as a precursor to the Level 1 Diploma. The Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media is designed to build on the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired through the Award and to provide an opportunity to explore, develop and test creativity.

The UAL Level 1 Art and Design qualification typically provides students with a foundational understanding of various principles and techniques within the field of art and design. While the specific curriculum may vary depending on the institution offering the course, here are some common topics and areas of study you might encounter:

1. Introduction to Art and Design: This may include an overview of different art forms, historical periods, and artistic movements.

2. Drawing: Fundamental drawing skills such as line drawing, shading, perspective, and composition.

3. Painting: Basic techniques in painting with various mediums such as watercolour, acrylics, or oils.

4. Graphic Design: Introduction to graphic design principles including typography, layout design, and digital imaging.

5. Sculpture: Basic sculpting techniques using materials like clay, plaster, or mixed media.

6. Printmaking: Introduction to printmaking techniques such as relief printing, screen printing, and etching.

7. Textiles: Basic techniques in textile design and construction, including fabric manipulation, dyeing, and printing.

8. Three-dimensional Design: Exploring three-dimensional design concepts and materials through projects such as model-making and product design.

9. Digital Media: Introduction to digital art and design software, including Adobe Creative Suite programs like Photoshop and Illustrator.

10. Portfolio Development: Guidance on creating a portfolio of work that showcases the student's skills and creativity, which is often crucial for further study or employment in the field of art and design.

11. Art History and Contextual Studies: Some courses may include modules on art history or contemporary art theory to provide students with a broader understanding of the context in which art is created and interpreted.

Overall, the UAL Level 1 Art and Design qualification aims to provide students with a solid foundation in artistic skills and concepts, preparing them for further study or entry-level positions within the field of art and design.

Entry into our UAL Level 1 Art and Design course is open to anyone who demonstrates a keen interest in exploring and developing their artistic abilities, regardless of their educational background or prior experience in art and design.

Overall, assessment in a UAL Level 1 Art and Design course is often a combination of practical, written, and verbal components, designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of students' skills, creativity, critical thinking, and understanding of the subject matter.

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.

Progression to Higher Levels of Study: Many students choose to continue their education by enrolling in higher-level art and design courses, such as UAL Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications here at WKC.

Specialised Training or Apprenticeships: Some individuals may opt for specialised training programs or apprenticeships in specific areas of art and design, such as ceramics, jewellery making, furniture design, or digital media production.

Michael has been teaching since 2013 across secondary and college levels and is experienced in teaching from key stage 4 up to post-FE. His specialism is Film Production delivering techniques and skills he has gained from filmmaking and sound design.

Michale’s experiences include being a Camera Operator for an independent film for a FILM4 picture, Director of two award-winning short films on AMAZON PRIME video and Pinewood Studios film festival, recording, producing and music event management, and documentary filming.

Using this industry experience, Michael delivers practical and employment skills relevant to the creative industries and challenges students to achieve their potential whilst offering guidance for their future endeavours.

The teachers listed may change, these shown are an example of the teachers who teach on these programmes.