Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Southend-on-Sea. Classes run at South Essex College Southend Campus, full-time over two years. This free BTEC art and design course is free to UK learners under 19 years old who are not in employment. You'll study photographic media, studio photography, digital image editing, location photography, and experimental imagery. The course has a strong practical focus, and you're expected to work independently and seek out work placements in your own time. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including an art-related subject, plus a portfolio and interview.
Who this course is for
You will study a comprehensive range of different art, design and multimedia techniques and disciplines. Completing this course will give you a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design (Fine Art).
Entry requirements
four GCSEs at grade four/grade C or above, including maths, English and an art-related subject, or * Art and Design Level 2 Extended Certificate plus maths and English at grade four/grade C or above, or equivalent * you will be asked to provide evidence of your ability in the subject which could be in the form of a portfolio * successful attendance at interview event
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in photographic media, techniques, and technology
You'll practise studio photography and location photography
You'll learn digital image capture and editing using computer applications
You'll explore experimental and lens-based image making
You'll gain experience in darkroom practice and darkroom applications
You'll study commercial photographic laboratory operations
You'll build independent working habits and seek out real work placement opportunities
How you will learn
You'll be assessed through a mixture of practical tasks and supporting written work. Your tutors will give you regular, ongoing feedback throughout the course. You'll also take part in educational excursions to support your learning. Maths and English are embedded in the programme alongside your art and design studies.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to bring a portfolio of your artwork to the interview event as evidence of your ability. South Essex College Southend Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Photographer, working in commercial, portrait, or editorial settings
Graphic designer, creating visual content for print and digital media
Art director, leading creative projects in advertising or publishing
Illustrator, producing artwork for books, games, or media
Visual merchandiser, designing displays for retail environments
Digital content creator, producing images and visual assets online
Gallery or museum assistant, supporting exhibitions and collections
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Photography or Fine Art, at university, building on your Extended Diploma with a full degree
BA (Hons) Graphic Design or Illustration, if you want to specialise in a different creative discipline
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Art and Design (Level 4), a shorter higher-education route if you prefer to stay in further education
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, if you want a broader creative base before applying to degree courses