Art and design
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (BTEC national diploma)
Two-years, (equivalent to three A-levels)
This course is your first step towards a career as a graphic designer, fashion designer, interior designer or architect. You will have the opportunity to specialise in textiles and fashion, fine art, 3D design or graphic design.
Required qualifications
Four or more A*-C grades at GCSE or a full level two pass in a related subject plus two other GCSEs at grade C or above. You will be required to bring a portfolio of art or design work to your interview. Entry requirements for students currently studying an intermediate vocational course will be based on their performance at intermediate level. Depending on your GCSE grades, you may also take an AS/A-level alongside the national diploma.
What will I study?
The course will focus on:
- fashion and textiles
- 3D design and graphic design
- fine art
- historical and contemporary work of artists and designers.
On the course you will:
- design and develop your own art work and final product
- attend events such as the Clothes Show Live
- visit museums and galleries to explore historical and contemporary aspects of art and design
- exhibit your art work at the end of year show
- gain work experience in design companies or fashion houses.
Method of assessment
You will produce a portfolio of your work which will demonstrate your research and development of a final product. You will also make coursework presentations throughout your programme.
What will I be able to progress to?
On completion you will have a number of options to choose from, including studying art, graphic design, fashion, product or furniture design and architecture at university. You may decide to enter areas of employment including design, advertising and creative arts. Sahena Khatun (ex-Brampton Manor School) achieved a distinction and merit on this course and is now studying graphic design at Central St Martins.
Other information
You will need to pay for your own art materials, some of which are available from the college. Research trips will require a small financial contribution.