Free BTEC Level 3 Art and Design Foundation Course in Bournemouth. Classes run at The Bishop of Winchester Academy, full-time during the day. This Pearson Edexcel qualification covers a range of art and design disciplines, giving you a broad foundation across the subject. The course runs over two years and includes visits to influential art galleries. You'll need a portfolio of creative work to apply, along with standard sixth form entry requirements. It counts as the equivalent of 1.5 A Levels.
Who this course is for
This course is equivalent to 1.5 A Levels and offers an exciting balance of introductory work across a range of art and design disciplines. This course is ideal if you enjoy art and design and prefer a more practical route of study. It will prepare you for higher education or a specialist art career, and includes visits to influential art galleries.
Entry requirements
Standard 6th Form entry requirements. It is preferred that students have a minimum of a GCSE grade 5 or BTEC Merit at Level 2 in this or a related subject. You must have a portfolio of evidence to document your creativity.
What you will learn
You'll explore a range of art and design disciplines through introductory projects.
You'll develop practical skills in creating and presenting creative work.
You'll build a portfolio that documents your creative process and outcomes.
You'll study the work of influential artists and designers, including through gallery visits.
You'll learn to work across different media and techniques within art and design.
You'll develop skills in researching, planning, and evaluating your own creative projects.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Foundation Diploma is largely coursework based. You'll complete practical projects and assignments across a range of art and design disciplines. Work is assessed through your portfolio and submitted coursework rather than written exams. Classes are classroom based and run full-time during the day at The Bishop of Winchester Academy.
What you will need to bring
You must have a portfolio of creative work to document your creativity before you start. The centre will confirm any additional materials you need. The Bishop of Winchester Academy will provide details before your course begins.
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 displays for retail environments.
Art technician: support artists or educators in studio and gallery settings.
Textile designer: design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors.
Animator: create moving images for film, games, or online content.
What you could study next
BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Art and Design (Level 4): a higher education route into specialist creative practice.
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related subject: a degree at a university or art college, for which this qualification helps prepare your application and portfolio.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3): a one-year pre-degree course at art college, often taken before a specialist degree.
