Level 3 Art and Design Course in Colchester. Classes run full-time at Adult Skills Centre Colchester, with a September start. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, so contact the centre for details. This level 3 art and design qualification focuses on concept art, animation, and illustration. You'll develop both digital and traditional skills across inventive projects, and explore animation through festivals and exhibitions. The course typically takes 9 months for the Diploma year. Entry requires 5 GCSEs (grades 9 to 4) including English and Maths, or a Level 2 Functional Skills equivalent, plus an Art and Design subject and a portfolio interview.
Who this course is for
This course is designed for students who have completed their GCSEs or a relevant Level 2 qualification and want to explore different aspects of photography, such as portraiture, advertising, documentary and fine-art photography.
Entry requirements
5 GCSEs (9-4), including English and Maths, or Level 2 Functional Skills equivalent and an Art and Design subject, or satisfactory results (Merit/Distinction) in a relevant Level 2 qualification, plus an interview with a portfolio of artwork.
What you will learn
You'll develop digital and traditional animation and illustration techniques.
You'll create characters, animations, and visuals for a range of creative briefs.
You'll build research and analysis skills relevant to the creative industries.
You'll explore visual culture through visits to animation festivals and exhibitions.
You'll work on inventive projects that develop your drawing and making skills.
You'll learn how animation and illustration are applied across film, television, advertising, and games.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based projects, combining practical making with research and critical analysis. Classes are classroom-based and full-time during the day. Assessment is through a portfolio of creative work developed across the programme. You'll also take part in visits to festivals and exhibitions as part of your learning.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Adult Skills Centre Colchester will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to bring a portfolio of your artwork for the entry interview.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Concept artist: creating characters and worlds for games, film, or TV
Animator: producing animations for digital media, advertising, or broadcast
Illustrator: working across publishing, social media, and advertising
Storyboard artist: visualising scenes for film, TV, or animation studios
Graphic designer: applying visual communication skills across print and digital
Motion graphics designer: creating animated content for video and online platforms
What you could study next
UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication. The second year of this programme at the same centre, deepening your specialism.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4). A recognised route into higher education for art and design students.
BA (Hons) in Animation, Illustration, or Graphic Design. Degree-level study at a university, building on your UAL Diploma.
