Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Ashford. Classes run at Towers School and Sixth Form Centre, full-time over two years. You'll start by exploring a broad range of artistic styles, then specialise in one area. Specialisms include painting, printmaking, sculpture, drawing, illustration, graphic design, and textile design. Entry requires a GCSE Grade 4 in Art and a portfolio of work.
Who this course is for
The intention is to study a broad range of artistic styles. From this the student can then specialize in one area. The specialism includes painting, print making, sculpture, drawing, illustration, graphic design, textile design.
Entry requirements
GCSE Grade 4 Art plus portfolio of work
What you will learn
You'll explore a broad range of artistic styles and movements.
You'll develop skills in painting and drawing.
You'll practise printmaking and sculpture techniques.
You'll work with illustration and graphic design.
You'll study textile design as a potential specialism.
You'll build and refine a personal portfolio of creative work.
You'll develop the ability to research, plan, and realise your own creative projects.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Extended Certificate is assessed through coursework and portfolio-based assignments rather than traditional exams. You'll complete units assessed by your centre and externally set tasks marked by Pearson Edexcel. Learning takes place in the classroom and studio, with practical making sessions alongside written and research-based work. Your portfolio of work is central to the assessment process throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Towers School and Sixth Form Centre 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 media
Textile designer: design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
Printmaker: create original prints for galleries or commercial clients
Visual merchandiser: design in-store displays for retail brands
Art technician: support artists and educators in studios or schools
Junior designer: entry-level role in a design studio or agency
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or Textile Design: a degree is the natural next step for many art and design students, and this BTEC qualification is accepted by universities as part of their entry requirements.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3): a one-year course that helps you build a stronger portfolio and decide on a degree specialism before committing to a full degree programme.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a shorter higher education route if you want to progress into creative work without a full three-year degree.
