Free BTEC Level 2 Art and Design Skills Course in Nelson. Classes run at Nelson and Colne College, full-time during the day. The course is free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, contact the college to find out about fees. Over one year, you'll study photography, fine art, graphics, textiles, and enterprise skills. You'll also explore the impact of diversity and careers in art and media. Entry requires four GCSE passes at Grade 3 or above, or a Level 1 BTEC, including Grade 3 in English and Maths.
Who this course is for
This is an exciting programme made up of subject specific practical skills including enterprise skills, photography, fine art, graphics and textiles. Areas of study include personal study, impact of diversity and careers in art and media. This is an industry-led course that will support you in developing the key personal, technical and professional skills you need to progress to the Level 3 Creative Media and Game Design Practice, Level 3 Art and Design Practice or an Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
4 GCSE passes at a minimum of Grade 3, or a Level 1 BTEC which must include a Grade 3 in English Language or Literature and Maths.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in photography, fine art, graphics, and textiles.
You'll build enterprise skills relevant to the creative industries.
You'll explore the impact of diversity in art and design.
You'll research careers in art and media.
You'll complete a personal study, developing your own creative practice.
You'll gain the technical and professional skills needed to progress to Level 3 study or an Apprenticeship.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, studio-based work across a range of creative disciplines. This is an industry-led course, so tasks are grounded in real creative and professional contexts. Assessment is through coursework and portfolio-based projects rather than written exams. You'll build a body of work across the year that demonstrates your skills and creative development.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Nelson and Colne College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer assistant - support design teams in studios or agencies.
Photography assistant - assist on shoots for commercial or editorial clients.
Textile worker - produce and develop fabric and surface designs.
Visual merchandiser - create displays for retail environments.
Art technician - support artists or teachers in studios and schools.
Creative media assistant - help produce content across digital and print.
What you could study next
Level 3 Art and Design Practice - the natural next step for learners wanting to deepen their creative skills and prepare for higher education or professional work.
Level 3 Creative Media and Game Design Practice - ideal if you want to move into digital media, animation, or game design.
Creative Arts Apprenticeship - combine work and study in a creative industry role.
