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  • Level: 1
  • Study Mode: Full-time
  • Start: September 2025
  • Time: 9.30am-4.30pm
  • Duration: 1 year – 3 days per week main programme (1 day English and maths for students who do not have grade 4)
  • Type: Vocational Courses | Visual Arts

Please note that all courses are subject to a minimum number in order to run

About the course

This course will introduce students to the materials and processes used in art , design and media, and the skills needed to record and express ideas. Students are given the opportunity to explore, develop and test their creativity and commitment to the subject and will gain an understanding of the job roles available in the creative industries.

Entry requirements

4x GCSE at grade 1 or 2 or equivalent ideally including English and maths . You will be required to provide examples of art and design work at interview.

How much does it cost?

Courses are free to 16-18 year olds. Reduced fees may be available for 19+ learners.

There is a range of financial support that you may be entitled to, including: Learner Support funds, grants and bursaries and employer support.

A materials fee of approximately £75 is payable at the beginning of the year to contribute towards some of the consumable materials such as paper, paint, printing ink, clay etc. Budget £50 for your own materials. Costs (approx £75) of local visits need to be covered by students.

Awarding Body

UAL (University of the Arts London)

Why study?

You will cover a range of specialist areas: drawing and painting, working in 3D, photography and photoshop, games design, digital art and communication. For your final project you will respond to a theme and develop your work in a specialism of your choice. You will use our specialist workshops and equipment. Where possible you will be given the opportunity to take part in live briefs and competitions.

There will be a trip in the second term, either to a museum or gallery or a location such as Hatfield Forest or IWM Duxford for example.

Where will this course take me?

Progression to Ual Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design or Level 2 Diploma Gaming

Possible careers:

  • Photographer
  • Artist
  • Games designer
  • Graphic Designer
  • Visual Merchandiser

Core modules

  • Unit 1 Introduction to materials, processes and skills in art, design and media
  • Unit 2 Introduction to contextual research in art, design and media
  • Unit 3 Introduction to communication skills in art, design and media
  • Unit 4 Solving 2D creative problems
  • Unit 5 Solving 3D creative problems
  • Unit 6 Solving time-based creative problems
  • Unit 7 Art, design and media project

How will I be assessed?

There are no exams on the Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media. You will be assessed on the projects you complete in class during the year and your final grade for the qualification (Pass, Merit, Distinction) is based on your final project.

Will I have to provide anything?

You are expected to provide your own art kit and should budget for £50.

There are also course costs of £50 for essential materials and £30 for a research trip 

You will also have to pay a returnable £75 deposit for your iPad

Total costs:£205

If you are eligible for bursary the college will meet some or all of these costs

I'm interested. What should I do now?

Call 01279 868100 and talk to an Admissions Adviser
Ask Us a question about this course
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