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  • Course Type
    16-19 Courses
  • Course Code
    VA201
  • Campus
    Twelve Quays
  • Start Date
    7th Sep
  • Level
    Level 2
  • Duration
    1 year

This course is accredited by University of the Arts London (UAL). The course is designed to help you to develop competence in all areas of Art and Design practice. For the final major project, you will choose a pathway, for example 2D (can include Fine Art, Graphics, Illustration, etc.) or 3D (Textiles, Fashion, Sculpture, etc.).

You will experience work in the following areas:

  • Drawing
  • Communication Skills
  • 2D Creative Problems
  • 3D Creative Problems
  • Time-based Art
  • Contextual Research
  • Course Details

    The course is designed to offer a wide range of art and design experiences, developing skills and theory in the following:

    Students will learn about specialist areas such as:

    • Drawing
    • Painting
    • Textiles
    • Sculpture
    • Digital Media

    You will use a variety of equipment, materials and techniques and gain experience in presenting work for an exhibition. In the first term you will have an introduction into all the above areas of art and design, followed by two specialist option projects in the second term, where you will choose to focus upon two of the areas listed above. During the third term you will carry out your final major project in the area of your choice, using the skills you have developed throughout the programme. The full award consists of eight units.

  • Entry Guidelines

    • Please note you will be required to provide a portfolio of your work as part of the application process.
    • You will need 4 GCSE's at Grade 3 or above. One of the 4 GCSE's to be maths or English at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) to study at this level.
    • If you have a beginner/Introductory qualification in the subject you want to study and a maths or English GCSE at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) you can study at this level.


    Entry requirements for Level 2 courses in some sectors may be more specific. If you're unsure whether you meet these requirements, don't worry — we can help you find a suitable course that aligns with your skills and experience.

  • Where can I progress to?

    Completion of this diploma opens doors to further learning opportunities at Level 3, such as the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Art and Design Practice (Photography) or other complementary diplomas such as the UAL Level 3 in Art and Design (2D Fine Art or 3D Textiles and Fashion).

  • Timetable

    You will typically be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week. You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.
  • Assessment Methods

    Assessment through practical project/assignment work with a final major project.

Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.