Level 1 Art and Design Course in Hitchin

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Level 1 Art and Design Course in Hitchin. Classes run at Hitchin Centre, full-time during the day over 36 weeks. No tuition fees apply if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though an Advanced Learner Loan could help.

The course covers drawing, design, media, and making work at scale. You'll get hands-on experience through work placements, fashion shows, exhibitions, and collaborative projects. There are no formal entry requirements. You'll have an interview and a portfolio review to confirm the course is the right fit.

You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Diploma in Art, Design and Media at Level 1.

Who this course is for

Our creative arts courses include lots of opportunities for you to get hands-on experience in the world of work, including:Work experience with businesses like Clothes Show Live, The Royal Opera House, Kingdom Creative, The Wine Society, Herts For Learning and the National Youth TheatreDesigning and making large-scale installation workPartaking in the annual in-house fashion show, exhibitions and performancesOpportunities to work on collaborative projects across creative arts and other course arYour course will be a mix of practical sessions and workshops. You will also work on projects with local and national employers and in the community.Techniques you will be introduced to include painting and drawing, photography, printmaking, digital media and 3D processes.You will learn the skills you need for the workplace including communication, numeracy, organisational skills, team-building and relationship-building.You will develop your confidence, social skills and creativity through this course, whilst creating a personal plan for your future study and / or work opportunities.You will also complete maths & English qualifications if you haven?t got them already as they are essential in this industry.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course. We'll use your interview - including a review of your previous work - to make sure it's the right course for you.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop drawing and observational skills across a range of media.
  • You'll explore design processes, from initial ideas through to finished work.
  • You'll create large-scale installation and making projects.
  • You'll work on fashion, performance, and exhibition-based briefs.
  • You'll gain experience through work placements with creative organisations.
  • You'll collaborate on projects across different creative arts disciplines.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work to support future study or employment.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practical work, projects, and creative briefs. Assessment is portfolio-based, drawing on the work you produce throughout the year. You'll also take part in live briefs, work experience placements, exhibitions, and the annual fashion show. Classroom sessions at Hitchin Centre support your practical projects with taught input and group feedback.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Hitchin Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start. The provider notes that some trips and visits during the year may carry additional charges.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior graphic designer, creates visual content for print and digital.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs in-store displays and retail environments.
  • Fashion or textiles assistant, supports design and production teams.
  • Photography assistant, works alongside photographers on shoots.
  • Arts and crafts workshop assistant, supports creative sessions in community settings.
  • Exhibition or gallery assistant, helps prepare and install displays.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, the natural next step to deepen your skills and specialist knowledge.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design, a qualification that opens doors to university or higher-level creative work.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, a University of the Arts London qualification designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

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