Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Swindon – New College Swindon North Star Campus

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Swindon. Classes run full-time at New College Swindon North Star Campus. This two-year course covers art and design practice in depth, giving you the skills and portfolio to move into higher education or creative work. The Pearson Edexcel level 3 BTEC art and design qualification is one of the most widely accepted routes into university art and design programmes. You'll attend daytime btec art and design classes and build a substantial body of work across the two years.

Who this course is for

Anyone

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills across a range of art and design disciplines.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of creative work.
  • You'll explore design processes from initial concept through to finished outcome.
  • You'll study contextual and critical thinking in art and design.
  • You'll experiment with materials, techniques, and media.
  • You'll develop your own creative voice and personal style.
  • You'll learn to present and communicate your ideas clearly.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practice, projects, and assignments in the classroom. Assessment is through a portfolio of work and unit assignments rather than written exams. You'll complete set briefs and self-directed projects, building evidence of your skills and creative development over the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Swindon North Star Campus 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
  • Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store experiences
  • Photographer: work commercially or in editorial and events
  • Art technician: support studios, schools, or galleries
  • Textile designer: create patterns and surface designs for fashion or interiors
  • Junior animator: entry-level roles in digital and motion graphics

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art or Graphic Design: a degree is the natural next step after this Extended Diploma, and most UK universities accept it as a strong entry qualification.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3): some learners take a one-year foundation year before a degree to specialise further.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design (Level 5): a two-year higher education route if you want to stay in further education before committing to a full degree.

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