Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Skegness – Skegness Academy

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Skegness. Classes run full-time during the day at Skegness Academy, over two years. You'll need five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 to join. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec art and design qualification covers applied creative practice and is designed to support progression to higher education and careers in the creative industries. The free btec art and design course suits those combining it with other Level 3 subjects in sixth form. You'll graduate with the Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate in Art and Design.

Who this course is for

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Art and Design is intended as a qualification for post-16 learners wanting to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education, and ultimately to employment, possibly in the creative industries. The creative industries is one of the fastest growing in the UK, so Art and Design has never been more relevant. This option would be more appropriate for those students who wish to study other subjects alongside art and design.

As part of the course you will gain practical and theoretical knowledge in a broad range of specialisms, these include drawing, painting, digital, two and three-dimensional design and art history as well as guidance in building portfolios, preparing for interviews and future careers in the art and design sector.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE - Grades 9 to 4

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills across a range of art and design disciplines.
  • You'll explore visual communication, composition, and design principles.
  • You'll build a portfolio of creative work to support university applications.
  • You'll study contextual and historical influences on art and design.
  • You'll experiment with different media, materials, and techniques.
  • You'll respond to creative briefs through research, development, and final outcomes.

How you will learn

The BTEC format combines coursework-based assessment with set assignments. You'll complete units assessed through portfolios of work, written responses, and practical projects. There are no traditional written exams for most units. Learning takes place in the classroom and studio, with teacher-guided projects and independent creative development forming the core of your study.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Skegness Academy 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, or digital platforms
  • Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography
  • Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and brand environments
  • Art technician: support creative departments in schools or studios
  • Textile designer: develop patterns and materials for fashion or interiors
  • Animator: create moving image content for film, games, or online media

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art or Graphic Design: a degree for those wanting to specialise and build a professional creative practice.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration or Animation: leads into digital and publishing careers.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design: a one-year course that bridges BTEC study and degree-level work, helping you refine your specialism before applying to university.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Art and Design: a Level 4 qualification for those entering higher education at a more applied level.