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Art and Design Foundation Diploma

Art Foundation Course Image

Key Details

Levels

Level 3

FT / PT

FT

Location

Lowestoft

Attendance

4 days

Duration

1 year

Please note, this course is only accepting applications from learners aged 16 - 18, as well as those up to the age of 25 who hold a current EHCP.

This intensive one-year Level 3 course is designed for creative students who want to develop their artistic skills, explore new disciplines and prepare for progression to higher education or a career in the creative industries.

Through a broad range of practical projects, you will experiment with a variety of materials, processes and techniques before choosing a specialist pathway. Working in a supportive and inspiring studio environment, you will develop your creativity, technical skills, confidence and individual style.

The course also includes opportunities to work on live briefs, take part in exhibitions and receive guidance with university applications and portfolio preparation, ensuring you are well prepared for your next step.

Great Yarmouth Campus Open Day

Great Yarmouth Campus Open Day

29th Aug 26 10:00 – 12:00

Course Information

To join this course, you will need:

  • An Extended Diploma, or at least one A Level in Art, Photography, Textiles or Graphic Design.
  • Four GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C), ideally including English and Maths.
  • A sketchbook or portfolio demonstrating a range of creative work.

If you have been out of education for some time and do not hold formal qualifications, you may still be considered. You will need to attend an interview and present a strong portfolio of artwork in art, design, photography and/or textiles that demonstrates your skills and potential for progression to higher education.

Assessment is project-based, with your work presented through sketchbooks and a portfolio that will be showcased in an end-of-year exhibition.

You will receive regular feedback and support throughout the course through tutorials, reviews and formative assessment. At the end of each of the three stages, your work will be assessed and awarded a grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction.

After completing this course, you can progress to higher education by studying a Foundation Degree in Professional Photographic Practice, Fashion and Textiles, or Visual Effects and Post Production, or a BA in Visual Art through the University of Suffolk at East Coast College. You may also choose to continue your studies at another university.

Alternatively, you can progress into an apprenticeship or employment within the creative industries, with career opportunities in areas such as architecture, graphic and web design, illustration, photography, and fashion design.

You will explore areas including drawing, painting, photography, illustration, printmaking, sculpture, 3D design, graphic design, digital design and contextual studies, while building a professional portfolio that showcases your abilities.

50/50

Career Pathways