Summary

This exciting one-year course will appeal to learners who have an interest in the creative industries and the world of the creative arts. It is aimed at providing learners with a detailed overview of the skills, attributes and various disciplines within art and design, before focusing on a more specialised route of learning later on in the learners' progression.

The Level 1 course in Art and Design is designed to provide an opportunity to inspire, explore, develop and test creativity. This course will cover a broad range of arts subjects in both 2D and 3D.

How will I know how I am doing?

A variety of assessment methods will be used to measure your progress from your start point and against your expected outcomes and target grade. These may include practical tasks and assessments, written assignments, performance reviews, presentations and discussions.

Progress will be discussed with your tutor and other delivery staff on the programme.

What do I need to join?

As well as having a keen interest in the subject area, learners will need to possess GCSE Grade 1 or 2 in both English and Maths.

Maths & English

A key requirement for future progression and employment is a good understanding and application of knowledge and skills in both English and maths.

Learners who are enrolled on this course will also, as part of their overall programme of study, be enrolled onto either Functional Skills or GCSE courses in English and Maths in order to progress towards gaining GCSE Grade 4 in both subjects.

Employability

We aim to provide you with the skills required to be able to progress onto further study and training or into employment upon completion of your programme of study.

Key attributes required by employers are that individuals be enthusiastic, motivated, presentable (in some instances in company uniform), organised, articulate, able to think 'outside the box', business-like and enterprising, and that they have a 'can-do' attitude.

We work on all these areas throughout the duration of your programme of study and your tutor(s) will provide feedback on progress made, as well as areas for development.

Work Experience

As part of your overall programme of study, learners will be required to undertake a period of work placement related to the field of employment they wish to enter.

Our Work Placement Team will assist learners in gaining a placement and ensure that you are on track to achieve, whilst liaising with your course tutors to ensure that the opportunity to practice necessary employability skills is available at college.

What can I do next?

Learners who successfully complete will be eligible for progression onto a Level 2 programme of study or an apprenticeship in a related discipline.

What are my career options?

Many students have progressed from Level 1 up through the levels and then gone to university and been employed in well-paid jobs or started up successful businesses. A career in art is diverse and can include careers in graphic design, illustration, website design, teaching, museum studies and curating, set design, youth work, art therapy and photography, as well as work in the ceramics, textiles and fashion industries. The skills and confidence gained on this course will help you to find the direction you want to go in and how to get there.