Free Level 1 Art, Design and Media Course in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration42 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start31 Aug 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 1 Art, Design and Media Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, full-time during the day.

The course runs over 42 weeks. You'll explore drawing, fine art, 3D work, and textiles. Projects help you develop your own visual ideas and creative practice. There are no formal entry requirements. Entry is based on an interview and a portfolio of your art and design work.

You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Award in Art, Design and Media.

Who this course is for

This introductory course is perfect for anyone looking to explore their creativity and build a foundation in art, design and media. You�ll develop your visual ideas through drawing, fine art, 3D and textiles projects, and begin your journey toward a career in the creative industries.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements. Entry is based on an interview and a portfolio of art and design work.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop drawing skills through practical projects.
  • You'll explore fine art techniques and visual ideas.
  • You'll work with 3D materials and construction methods.
  • You'll experiment with textiles as a creative medium.
  • You'll build a portfolio of art and design work.
  • You'll gain a foundation in creative practice across art, design and media.

How you will learn

You'll learn through hands-on studio projects in the classroom. Work is assessed through a portfolio of practical work you build up across the year. You'll take part in drawing, fine art, 3D, and textiles projects. Your tutor will review your progress as you go.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a portfolio of art and design work to bring to your interview. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Studio assistant, supports artists or designers in a creative workspace.
  • Art technician, prepares materials and equipment in a school or college.
  • Visual merchandiser, creates displays for shops and retail spaces.
  • Craft maker, produces handmade goods for sale or commission.
  • Gallery assistant, helps run exhibitions and welcomes visitors.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, a natural next step that broadens your creative skills and opens more career options.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design, prepares you for university or creative industry work.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, a specialist year that many universities require before a degree in the creative arts.