Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Helston

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Helston. Classes run at Helston Community College, full-time over two years. This level 3 BTEC art and design qualification is designed to develop your creative practice, visual thinking, and technical skills across a range of art and design disciplines. To start, you'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including an art and design subject at grade 6 or above, and a grade 5 in English is recommended. The course is free for 16 to 18 year old UK residents.

Who this course is for

This qualification has been designed by further education experts from institutions across England and the UK to provide young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to progress to degree level study in art and design, or into employment. Intentionally designed to cultivate conditions where an interest in the visual arts can be explored, developed and creativity tested; while remaining stimulating, demanding and supportive, it helps students in the transition from further to higher education and employment. IS THIS COURSE FOR ME? A career in art and design will lead towards a lifetime of experimentation, invention and discovery. If you have a strong feeling for a particular discipline, be it fine art, film, fashion or textiles, or know that you long to work with colour, line, form, shape and pattern and that you love to explore and experiment then a career in art and design could be for you.

Entry requirements

Students should have a minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, at least one of which should be in an art and design subject at a grade 6 or above (or the equivalent level 2 qualification in an appropriate subject). A grade 5 in English is also recommended.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills across drawing, making, and visual communication.
  • You'll explore a range of art and design disciplines, including fine art, graphic design, and photography.
  • You'll research and analyse the work of artists and designers to inform your own practice.
  • You'll plan, develop, and present creative projects from initial idea to finished outcome.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of work to support university or employment applications.
  • You'll respond to set briefs and develop your ability to work independently and creatively.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practice, projects, and guided research. Assessment is through a portfolio of coursework and a set assignment unit. There are no written exams for most units. You'll build your portfolio throughout the two years, with work assessed against Pearson Edexcel criteria. Classes are delivered in person at Helston Community College during the day.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Helston Community College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and media
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital platforms
  • Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography
  • Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store environments
  • Art technician: support studios, galleries, or school art departments
  • Junior designer: entry-level role in a design studio or agency
  • Animator: create moving image content for film, TV, or games

What you could study next

A degree in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography, or a related subject is the most common next step. Many learners use this qualification to apply through UCAS. A Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3) is another option if you want a broader creative foundation before specialising at degree level. Some graduates move into Higher National Certificates or Diplomas (HNC or HND) as an alternative route into the creative industries.

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