Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time over one year, four days a week including work experience. You'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including Maths and English at grade C or above, or a Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject. The level 3 BTEC art and design qualification covers fine art, textiles, graphics, multimedia, photography, sculpture, and printmaking. It carries the same UCAS points as three A Levels, making it a strong route into art and design degree study.
Who this course is for
The Extended Diploma in Art and Design Level 3 is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and understanding to progress onto degree level study in Art and Design or into employment. Students will explore, develop and expand their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating, demanding and provides a supportive transition from further to higher education. The vocational context of this qualification is key and this is provided through assignment briefs that provide you with realistic, work based scenarios and projects.
Entry requirements
Minimum 4 GCSE's at grades 9 - 4 (A* - C) or equivalent, including a C or above in Maths and English, or a Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject area.
What you will learn
You'll develop visual recording skills, exploring ideas and concepts through a range of media.
You'll study fine art techniques including drawing, painting, and sculpture.
You'll work with textiles, graphics, and printmaking processes.
You'll produce multimedia and photography projects.
You'll respond to assignment briefs based on realistic, work-based creative scenarios.
You'll build a specialist portfolio of work across multiple creative disciplines.
You'll explore the historical and contextual study of art and design.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based, delivered over four days a week. You'll work through assignment briefs that set realistic creative projects and scenarios. Assessment is through coursework and portfolio submissions rather than written exams. Work experience is built into the timetable. You'll receive specialist art equipment throughout the course, though you'll be expected to supply your own basic art materials and may contribute toward the cost of educational visits.
What you will need to bring
You will need to provide your own basic art materials. Specialist art equipment is provided throughout the course. You may also be asked to contribute toward the cost of educational visits. Bishop Auckland College will confirm exactly what you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: create visual content for print and digital media.
Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography.
Textile designer: design fabrics and patterns for fashion or interiors.
Multimedia artist: produce digital content for film, games, or animation.
Illustrator: create artwork for publishing, advertising, or online platforms.
Art technician: support artists and designers in studios or colleges.
Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store environments.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography, Textiles, or a related creative subject at university. This qualification carries the same UCAS points as three A Levels and is designed to prepare you for degree-level study.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4): a one-year course some universities require or recommend before a specialist degree.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a creative discipline, if you prefer a more vocational route into the industry.
