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Free Level 1 Art and Design Course in Bishop Auckland – Bishop Auckland College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 1 Art and Design Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time during the day.

The course focuses on photography. You'll explore photographic techniques, equipment, and materials. Units cover darkroom and studio work, location photography, and a design and media project. You'll also research the work of professional photographers and use digital graphics software. The course runs for one year and includes exhibitions and cultural trips.

No formal entry requirements are needed. You'll finish with a Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media.

Who this course is for

This course is perfect if you are wanting to learn a broad range of photography skills and would like to have a career in photography. Students will learn and develop a set of practical skills, exploring photographic techniques, equipment and materials, as well as undertaking research into the work of photographers and software used in photography and digital graphics. Further enrichment also includes photography exhibitions, cultural trips and working with local professionals. Progression from this course would be the Level 2 in Photography.

Entry requirements

No formal entry requirements needed.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore a range of photographic techniques, including landscape, portraiture, still life, and action photography.
  • You'll develop practical skills in studio, darkroom, and location settings.
  • You'll research the work of professional photographers to inform your own practice.
  • You'll use digital graphics software relevant to photography.
  • You'll work on a final major project in a genre of your choice.
  • You'll build a personal portfolio of photographic work.
  • You'll gain an introduction to materials, processes, and skills in art and design.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical photographic projects set in a creative classroom environment. Work takes place indoors, outdoors, in a studio, and in a darkroom. You'll be assessed through a portfolio of projects, including a final major project you develop in your own style. There is also the opportunity to exhibit your work at the end of the course.

What you will need to bring

A DSLR camera is useful to have. Cameras can also be borrowed from Bishop Auckland College. The college will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Photographer, captures images for clients across a range of genres.
  • Photography assistant, supports professional photographers on shoots.
  • Studio technician, manages equipment and lighting in a photography studio.
  • Digital media assistant, creates visual content for websites and social media.
  • Gallery or exhibition assistant, helps to install and present visual artwork.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Photography Qualification, the natural next step after this course, building on your practical and creative skills.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, broadens your skills across a wider range of art and design disciplines.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design, prepares you for higher education or professional creative work.
Apply on bacoll.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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