Free Level 1 Art, Design and Media Course in St Albans

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 1 Art, Design and Media Course in St Albans. Classes run at Oaklands College St Albans Campus, full-time during the day, over 36 weeks. You'll study a broad range of subjects including print, textiles, graphics, painting, drawing, 2D and 3D work, alongside Functional Skills. Entry to this level 1 art, design and media qualification requires a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 1 to 3, or completion of an Entry Level programme. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right fit.

Who this course is for

The UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media course is constructed to enable you to achieve 37 credits across the range of units of work and subjects necessary for achieving the level 1 diploma. The units will cover a broad programme of subjects: print, textiles, graphics, painting, drawing, 2D, 3D and Functional Skills.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 3 - 1 or successful completion of an Entry Level programme.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore printmaking techniques and processes.
  • You'll work with textiles, developing design and making skills.
  • You'll create graphics and visual communication work.
  • You'll practise painting and drawing across different styles and methods.
  • You'll produce 2D and 3D pieces, building a range of making skills.
  • You'll develop Functional Skills in English and maths alongside your creative work.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work across multiple art and design disciplines.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, studio-based work in the classroom, covering a broad programme of subjects worth 37 credits in total. Assessment is through the units you complete across the course, with work submitted as a portfolio of practical and creative projects. Classes are daytime and full-time across the 36-week programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oaklands College St Albans Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic design assistant: support designers in studios or agencies.
  • Visual merchandiser: create displays for shops and retail spaces.
  • Printmaker or print technician: produce printed materials and artwork.
  • Textile or craft maker: create handmade products for sale or commission.
  • Art technician: support artists or teachers in studios and schools.
  • Photography assistant: assist on shoots in commercial or creative settings.

What you could study next

  • UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design: the natural next step, building on your Level 1 work and opening doors to further study.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Creative Media Production: if you want to focus on digital and media skills.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design: leads toward higher education in art, design, or media at university level.

Related courses at Oaklands College St Albans Campus

More courses near you