Art and Design: Extended Diploma

On successful completion of the course you will be able to continue your education through a degree course. The number and variety of courses offering specialisms in Art & Design are currently growing each year. You are given a lot of support towards applying for higher courses in an art-related subject, or searching for a potential career.

The College has purpose built art studios and you will have the benefit of input by both full time staff and visiting artists and designers.

The course consists of eighteen units, many of which are integrated. All units need to be completed to gain the full award. Each unit is graded as a pass, merit or distinction.

In Year One you will work on a flexible introductory core programme of visual studies, integrated individual and group projects and workshop practice in both 2D and 3D of which drawing is an integral part. This will cover ten units. Weekly sessions in contextual studies, information technology and professional practice form a vital part of the course. The course prides itself on its links with outside agencies, as well as setting up live projects that have a vocational context. You will have regular tutorials to help reach your goal.

Half way through the second year you select an area in which to specialise from any of the units covered. This will form the final major project. Research and Development are important areas as well as writing out a Statement of Intentions. This could include: Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Design, Illustration, 3D Design, Fashion and Textiles, Photography or Animation. Any form of Art and Design would be acceptable. The work produced is set up in an exhibition with a private view. There are internal assessment points at the end of each unit. A final grade is given at the end of the two year course through a tutorial after the end of year exhibition. Eight units are covered in Year Two.

There are various educational trips to exhibitions, museums and galleries in London and regionally. In Year Two we often offer a trip abroad, which combines project work with historical research.

NB There is an art shop on site.