Painting & Drawing expands on the media and techniques covered in the first two years. You are encouraged to improve on your basic skills through a variety of starting points from direct observation of still-life work and figure drawing. You will explore a variety of media, e.g. pencil, colour pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, and various forms of paint. The process of developing an idea over time and through sketchbook pages, experimentation and exploration is actively encouraged and expanded upon. Imaginative, pictorial and abstract compositions are attempted and ideas may be expressed as a final painting, mixed media piece, collage or low relief. Digital photography will underpin all projects.

Textiles builds on techniques and skills introduced in the first two years. A wide variety of decorative techniques are explored including embellishment, appliqué, machine stitching and construction with a variety of materials including weaving and felt making. Working on the sewing machines becomes a primary form of study and a careful induction programme has been created so that you can use this machinery in a safe manner. You are encouraged to make preliminary studies, notes, digital photography and drawings as a starting point for developing an idea or theme. Again this will be developed in to a final piece creation.

Ceramics – expands on the basic skills covered in the first two years. You are encouraged to make preliminary studies, design sheets and research pages under a given theme leading to the planning and construction of ceramic pieces. This work may be functional or non-functional/sculptural and may involve a variety of different construction techniques, including slab building, pinch pots, coiling and press moulding. A range of glazes and kiln firing techniques will be explored.

You will be encouraged to take risks and develop an awareness of how art forms can be created in 3D, 360 degree profiles.