Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Hillingdon. Classes run at Parkside Studio College, full-time during the day over two years. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including grade 4 in English and Maths. If you haven't studied BTEC Art and Design before, you'll also submit a portfolio for assessment on entry. The level 3 BTEC Art and Design qualification covers creative practice, design processes, and professional skills across a range of art and design disciplines. Awarded by Pearson Edexcel, it's a recognised route into creative industries and higher education.
Who this course is for
Pupils age 16 that have completed their GCSEs. Please see our full post 16 course prospectus from our website: https://www.therosedalehewensacademytrust.co.uk/
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs grades 9-4, including a Grade 4 in GCSE English and a Grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics. Students who have not studied BTEC Art and Design before will be required to submit a portfolio which will be assessed upon entry.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills across a range of art and design disciplines.
You'll explore creative processes from initial idea through to finished work.
You'll build a professional portfolio of your own projects and outcomes.
You'll study contextual and critical thinking in art and design.
You'll learn to use materials, tools, and techniques relevant to your chosen specialism.
You'll develop skills in presenting and communicating your creative ideas.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and studio-based, with practical project work at the centre of the course. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, portfolio submissions, and externally set assignments. You'll build evidence of your skills and creative development throughout the two years. There are no written exams in the traditional sense; your portfolio and project outcomes form the core of your assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Parkside Studio College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: creating visual content for brands and media
Illustrator: producing artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital media
Photographer: working in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography
Visual merchandiser: designing retail displays and brand environments
Art technician: supporting studios, galleries, or educational settings
Textile designer: creating patterns and designs for fashion or interiors
Animator: producing motion graphics or character animation for screen
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related creative subject at university. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate is widely accepted for degree entry alongside A Levels.
BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design. A work-focused alternative to a full degree, often available at further education colleges.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4). A one-year course that prepares you specifically for degree-level study in art and design.
