Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Chester

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Course in Chester. Classes run at Upton-by-Chester High School, full-time during the day. Over two years, you'll explore a wide range of techniques, materials and processes across art and design. You'll build an artist portfolio and discover the specialist area that suits you best. The course carries the same weight as one A level, so you can study it alongside other Level 3 qualifications. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec art and design qualification is a strong foundation for creative study or work.

Who this course is for

If you're thinking about art and design careers and want to to explore and develop your creative potential, this practical, work related course is for you. It will allow you to try out a range of techniques, materials and processes in art and design, help you to build an artist portfolio and discover the specialised area of study or work that most suits you. The course is the equivalent of 1 A level and you can study it in in addition to other level 3 academic or work related qualifications.

What you will learn

  • You'll experiment with a range of materials, techniques and processes in art and design.
  • You'll develop your creative ideas through practical, work-related projects.
  • You'll build and present an artist portfolio of your work.
  • You'll explore specialist areas of art and design to find the direction that suits you.
  • You'll develop skills in visual communication and creative problem-solving.
  • You'll learn how to research and respond to creative briefs.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, studio-based work in the classroom. Assessment is mainly through a portfolio of coursework and project work rather than written exams. You'll complete set assignments and personal creative projects, building evidence of your skills and development throughout the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Upton-by-Chester High School 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
  • Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store environments
  • Art technician: support artists and designers in studios or schools
  • Photography assistant: work alongside photographers on shoots
  • Textile designer: design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
  • Junior web designer: combine creative and digital skills online

What you could study next

  • BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Art and Design (Level 4): a natural next step if you want to specialise further without committing to a full degree.
  • BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration or a related subject: most UK universities accept the BTEC National Extended Certificate as part of an application, particularly when combined with other Level 3 qualifications.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3): a one-year course that prepares you specifically for degree-level creative study.

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