This vocational full-time art course is designed for students who are committed to a creative education and are interested in exploring a wide variety of disciplines from across the department including: Fine Art, Textiles, Photography, 3D design, Fashion and Graphics. In the first year, students will achieve the Subsidiary Diploma (9 units) and will progress to the Extended Diploma in the second (9 further units).

The course provides the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for learners wishing to pursue higher level study on a broad range of degree programmes and for preparing learners for employment in the creative industries. This qualification offers an engaging programme for students who are clear that they wish to pursue an art & design education and will enable them to build a diverse portfolio. Achievement of the qualification will enable students to directly enter degree programmes, without the necessity to study an Art Foundation course.

The Extended Diploma requires grade 4 or above at Art GCSE. Being open to experimentation and trying new things, as well as having a creative outlook and a willingness to work hard, is highly valued.

We have students who are now architects, costume designers, photographers, designers, book illustrators, interior designers, graphic designers, fashion assistants, teachers and practicing artists.

Students have gone on to study degrees at institutions including Central St Martins, Royal College of Art, London College of Fashion, Westminster, Royal School of Needlework, UCA (Farnham, Epsom), UAL (Kingston, Camberwell), Manchester Metropolitan, Bournemouth, Falmouth, Brighton, Winchester and UWE (Bristol).

The course is divided into 18 Units which are all equally weighted. 9 units are completed in year 1 for the Subsidiary Diploma and 9 units in year 2 to complete the Extended Diploma which is equivalent to 3 A levels. Each unit is marked at Pass, Merit or Distinction and 3 grades will be awarded at the end of the two-year programme.

Painting and Drawing

Printmaking

Textiles

Fashion

Photography

Illustration

Typography

3D Design (inc. Ceramics)

Contemporary Fine Art

Digital Art

Branding

The studio fee of £80 per year covers most of the materials that students will require. Students may wish to purchase additional craft materials to develop additional skills within their area of interest. There will be the opportunity to take part in a residential trip to Venice.