What is the course about?

The course is intended to meet the needs of students who wish to undertake further studies in art and design at university or who will study subjects for which an art and design background is relevant. Students begin the course with an eight week introductory period covering basic skills such as still life, clay sculpture and printing. 

Along with timetabled classes, students must be prepared to spend a considerable amount of their own time working on their art and they must be prepared to visit galleries in their free time. Students who enrol on the course must be self-disciplined, self-motivated and have a genuine engagement with the subject. 

Course content

Eight week introduction covering basic skills such as still life, clay sculpture and printing under the theme of shape and texture. Students must be prepared to spend a considerable amount of their own time working on their art, participating in life drawing classes and visiting galleries.

• Shape and texture.
• Personal investigation.
• Personal response.
• Externally set assignment.

Career pathways

A number of students choose to continue with their art education, either by following a degree or an art foundation course. Career pathways include graphic design, textile design, theatre design, print making, illustration, web design, interior design, jewellery design, fashion, sculpture, ceramics, fine art, art teaching, animation and architecture.

Assessment

• Internally set themed projects.
• Personal investigation supported by a written element of 1500-3000 words
• Externally set project and controlled assessment days.

Entry criteria

Minimum of grade 6 in GCSE Art. 

If you fail to meet the entrance requirement for this subject, then a portfolio of work may further support your application.