Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Bexhill-on-Sea. Classes run at Bexhill College, full-time during the day over two years. This course specialises in photography, covering digital techniques and darkroom skills alongside written research into historical and contemporary photographers. You'll visit local and national galleries and have work experience and exhibition opportunities. Entry requires at least four to five GCSEs graded 9 to 4, including English at grade 4 or above and an art-based subject. A portfolio is accepted if you are not currently studying an art-based GCSE.
Who this course is for
This course is an opportunity to specialise in Photography. It is a practical course covering a wide range of approaches to photography with digital and darkroom skills. This is supported by written research into historical and contemporary photographers and their practice. It includes trips to local and national galleries as well as work experience and exhibition opportunities. Students will be supported to develop their professional skills in preparation for a career in Photography. This qualification is the equivalent of one A Level and can therefore be done as part of an A Level programme.
Entry requirements
At least 4-5 GCSEs graded 9-4 including English at 4 or above and an Art-based subject. A portfolio is acceptable if you are not currently taking an Art-based GCSE.
What you will learn
You'll develop digital photography skills, from shooting to editing and presentation.
You'll learn darkroom techniques, including film photography and chemical processing.
You'll research historical and contemporary photographers and their working practices.
You'll build a professional portfolio of photographic work.
You'll gain experience of real gallery environments through trips to local and national venues.
You'll develop professional skills through work experience placements.
You'll plan and contribute to exhibition opportunities, presenting your work to an audience.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical studio and darkroom sessions, supported by written research projects. Assessment is coursework-based, building a portfolio of practical work and written studies over the two years. You'll also take part in gallery visits and work experience, which feed into your assessed work. Classes are classroom and studio-based, full-time during the day at Bexhill College.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to cover some costs yourself. These include basic materials and equipment such as sketchbooks, pencils, printer credit, and presentation materials. Film and darkroom photography may incur additional costs. There will be occasional costs for trips and gallery visits. Bexhill College will confirm the full details before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Photographer: freelance, commercial, or studio-based photography work.
Photography assistant: supporting professional photographers on shoots.
Darkroom technician: processing and printing film-based photography.
Gallery assistant: supporting exhibitions and collections in arts venues.
Visual content creator: producing images for brands, media, or social channels.
Photographic retoucher: editing and post-processing images for clients.
Art technician: supporting practical art and photography in schools or colleges.
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography or Art and Design: a larger qualification that strengthens a university application or professional portfolio.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4): a one-year course many universities require before a degree in art, design, or photography.
BA (Hons) Photography or Fine Art: a degree for those aiming for a professional or academic career in the creative arts.
Higher National Certificate or Diploma (HNC/HND) in Photography: a work-focused higher education route.
