Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Sunderland. Classes run at Sunderland College Bede Campus, full-time during the day. You'll work across fine art, textiles, and design, taking on hands-on projects to experiment with materials and techniques. You'll also build a professional portfolio that reflects your personal style. The course covers both contemporary and traditional practices. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and an art-based subject, or a relevant Level 2 qualification. The course runs for 408 hours.
Who this course is for
Explore your passion for creativity and develop a strong foundation in fine art, textiles, and design through an immersive learning experience. This course offers hands-on projects that allow you to experiment with materials and techniques, refine your personal style, and build a professional portfolio. You'll gain valuable insights into contemporary and traditional practices, preparing you for further education or a career in the dynamic world of art and design. With a focus on innovation and individual expression, this programme nurtures your creative potential while teaching the practical skills needed for the industry. Whether you're drawn to visual arts, textiles, or design, this pathway provides the tools and knowledge to pursue your artistic ambitions and succeed in a competitive creative landscape.
Entry requirements
You will need 4 GCSE's at grade 4-9 including an Art-based subject. Or a relevant Level 2 qualification.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in fine art, textiles, and design
You'll experiment with a range of materials and creative techniques
You'll build and refine a professional portfolio of your own work
You'll explore contemporary and traditional art and design practices
You'll develop your personal creative style through project work
You'll gain insight into working practices in the art and design industry
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based and studio based, with hands-on project work at the centre. Assessment for the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma is through a combination of coursework, portfolio submissions, and externally set assignments. You'll be assessed on your practical work, written responses, and the development of your portfolio throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Sunderland College Bede Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. If you are applying without an art and design GCSE, bring a portfolio of artwork or photography containing a good range of images, between 12 and 20, for your interview.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer, creating visual content for brands and media
Illustrator, producing artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital platforms
Textile designer, developing patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
Visual merchandiser, designing retail displays and in-store experiences
Art technician, supporting artists and educators in studios or schools
Photography assistant, supporting shoots in commercial or editorial settings
Junior designer, working in a creative studio or agency
What you could study next
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3/4): a common next step before applying to a degree, helping you specialise and strengthen your portfolio.
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Textile Design, or Illustration: a degree opens roles in professional creative industries and can lead to postgraduate study.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a two-year higher education route if you want to develop specialist skills before committing to a full degree.
