Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Penzance. Classes run at Penwith College, full-time during the day. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language or Literature at grade 4, and maths at grade 4 as a minimum (grade 5 preferred). This level 3 art and design qualification focuses on creative practice across art, design and communication, with a strong emphasis on visual effects and games industries. You'll build an extensive portfolio over one year, preparing you for work in these sectors or for progression to higher education.
Who this course is for
This course bridges the gap between the needs of the UKs rapidly growing Visual Effects and Games industries, and the skills taught to creative students before they go to university. The diploma will provide a Level 3 qualification, which is equivalent to three A Levels. Over two years, students will build extensive portfolios relevant to industry needs, in preparation for either working in these sectors or as a progression to higher education or higher Apprenticeships. The limits of what can be produced are only defined by your ability and effort, and Penwith College Games have a rich history of publishing games and winning national awards for our work.
Entry requirements
The basic requirement is four GCSEs at grade 4 to include English Language or Literature at grade 4 and mathematics at grade 5 is preferred but 4 is a minimum.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in art, design and visual communication.
You'll build an industry-relevant portfolio of creative work.
You'll explore techniques and processes used in visual effects and games design.
You'll study the creative and technical demands of the UK's visual effects and games industries.
You'll develop your ability to generate, develop and present creative ideas.
You'll practise critical and contextual thinking to support your creative decisions.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based practical work, project briefs and portfolio development. Classes are delivered face-to-face at Penwith College during the day. Assessment is through your portfolio of work and project outcomes rather than written exams. You'll receive ongoing feedback from tutors as you develop your projects throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Penwith College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Visual effects assistant: entry-level support role in VFX production
Games designer: creating concepts and assets for games studios
Graphic designer: producing visual content for print and digital
Illustrator: creating artwork for publishing, advertising or media
Animator: producing moving image content for film, TV or games
Art director assistant: supporting creative direction in agencies or studios
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Graphic Design, Illustration, Animation or a related creative subject at university, building directly on your portfolio and Diploma.
Higher Apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media, combining paid work with structured learning in a studio or agency.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4), if you want to broaden your creative practice before committing to a specialist degree route.
