Summary

This exciting 1-year course will appeal to students who have an interest in creativity and in the world of the creative arts. It is aimed at engaging students who are seeking practical study, but who might need to build confidence or rediscover their enjoyment in education before progressing onto employment or higher-level courses. The Level 1 Diploma in Art & 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. This project-based course encourages independence and builds confidence in those who prefer a practical approach to study.

The course comprises 7 units covering a variety of experimentation in:

• Drawing
• Photography
• Ceramics
• Model making
• Fine art installation
• Painting
• Textiles and surface pattern
• Printmaking
• Plasterwork and casting
• Planning, evaluating and developing final pieces at a professional level
• Planning and selling your own work
• Live projects engaging with the community
• Discussions about society, progression and well-being
• How to become more employable

The course culminates in the final major project at the end of the summer term, where the work will be displayed in a public exhibition.

How will I know how I am doing?

Project work is set with structured, achievable targets that are organised around practical assessment.

You will also discuss project work through group critiques, with verbal feedback from tutors and peers. Regular tutorials and reviews will take place with your tutor to discuss targets and progress.

What do I need to join?

A portfolio of work to present at interview. Additionally, learners should be punctual, committed to work and open to new ideas. No qualifications are necessary for this course, although enthusiasm is a must!

Maths & English

A key requirement to obtaining many jobs is to achieve a good standard of English and maths. Therefore learners that do not yet have a GCSE grade 4 (C) will be enrolled on either GCSE or functional skills programmes alongside their main course.

Employability

By developing the creative mind and interpersonal skills, this course makes learners more employable in every sector, as well as the creative industries. The course focuses on developing resilience and passion, making art and design a transferable skills base to take into any future employment.

Work Experience

Students are directed and supported to seek opportunities relevant to their specialism to experience the work environment, whether this is a live project set by industry, a creative competition or working for local or national companies.

What can I do next?

If you would like to continue your studies, you can progress onto the Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design or Photography (Stroud) or the Level 2 Diploma in Games Design. It is also possible to change subjects onto other Level 2 courses.

What are my career options?

Many students have progressed from Level 1 up through the levels and then have either gone to university, been employed in well-paid jobs or started up successful businesses. A career in art is diverse and can include work 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 find the direction you want to go in and how to get there.