Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Blackburn. Classes run full-time at Blackburn College, five days a week during the day, over one year. You'll need four GCSEs at grade C or 4 or above, including Maths or English Language, or a completed Level 2 course with equivalent Maths and English grades. Blackburn College is part of the University of the Arts London School and College Network, one of only ten colleges in the country to hold that status. The course builds core skills in fashion, textiles, and design, encouraging you to develop your own creative voice alongside practical techniques.
Who this course is for
This Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma in Photography aims to provide a firm foundation in core photography practice and to encourage your personal development and expression. The course helps you to find out what you enjoy, what you are good at and allows you to develop a set of valuable skills for future study and work University of the Arts, London Awarding Body (UAL) qualifications are recognised and highly regarded across the country and designed by some of the best art, design and media educators in the world. Blackburn College is one of only 10 Colleges in the country to have a UAL progression agreement, which means that our students will benefit from: A guaranteed interview with a UAL College/University
Industry specialised lecturers
Advice & guidance from a UAL representative
Help with mock interviews, specific to UAL criteria
UAL set assignments
As part of the UAL agreement, Blackburn College tutors meet and share good practice with the other 9 UAL approved colleges around the country, to make sure our students are receiving the best learning experience possible We have a first class record in placing talented students on the best degree course at institutions such as Ravensbourne, Chelsea School of Art & Design, Ruskin School at Cambridge, Leeds College of Art, Goldsmiths, London College of Communication, The Slade, Wimbledon, Camberwell College of Art, Central Saint Martins and London College of Fashion. This qualification is mapped to the level 3/4 UAL Pre-Degree Foundation Diploma (Media) at Blackburn College. Many students wish to complete this higher level and diverse course before progressing to University. Students can also progress to Photography related degree courses at the University Centre Blackburn College, or to a whole range of other art, design related degree courses at leading institutions in the United Kingdom. In addition students also progress directly to employment within the creative industries.
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grade C/4 including Maths or English Language or completion of a Level 2 course including GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in fashion and textile design.
You'll explore a range of creative materials, processes, and techniques.
You'll build a personal design practice and develop your own creative style.
You'll produce a portfolio of work that reflects your skills and ideas.
You'll learn to research, plan, and present design projects.
You'll gain experience communicating ideas visually and verbally.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based practice, project work, and tutor-led sessions in the classroom. Assessment is through a portfolio of creative work and project assignments rather than written exams. You'll build your portfolio throughout the year, with feedback from tutors at each stage. Some units may include a set brief with a defined outcome.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Blackburn College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Textile designer: creating patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
Fashion design assistant: supporting designers in a studio or retail setting
Visual merchandiser: styling product displays in shops and showrooms
Graphic designer: producing visual content for print or digital media
Illustrator: creating artwork for publishing, advertising, or fashion
Art technician: supporting creative departments in schools or studios
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Fashion Design or Textile Design: a degree-level route for those wanting to specialise further, available at universities and UAL-affiliated institutions.
BA (Hons) in Graphic Design or Illustration: if your interests have moved toward visual communication during the course.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a two-year higher-level qualification if you want a structured step before a full degree.
