Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Portsmouth. Classes run full-time at COPC Highbury Campus. You'll work across a range of art and design subjects and projects, including live briefs for gallery exhibitions and real design clients. The programme balances taught sessions with individual assignments, giving you space for personal creative development. You'll need four GCSEs at grade A* to C, including English and a creative subject, plus at least a grade D in Maths or a full Level 2 qualification at merit grade. All places require an interview and a portfolio of previous work.
Who this course is for
The programme includes an exciting and diverse range of art and design based subjects and projects, some of which are 'live' for real gallery exhibitions or design briefs for clients. At the outset we aim to improve your existing creative skills and introduce you to many new and unusual approaches to making art. The programme is a balanced mixture of taught subject matter and individual assignments allowing freedom of choice and personal expression.
The range of units and topics you can expect to study include drawing and painting, graphic design, printmaking, contextual studies, principles of fine art, design methods, and specialist investigations into subject matter of your own choosing
Entry requirements
You will need four GCSEs at Grade A*-C including English and a creative subject, and minimum of a D in Maths or a full Level 2 qualification, at merit grade, with literacy and numeracy at the appropriate level. Evidence of previous work experience would be useful and a willingness to work in the industry and the ability to succeed are equally important. All places on this course are subject to an interview with a portfolio of previous work and an initial assessment.
What you will learn
You'll develop your existing creative skills across a range of art and design disciplines.
You'll work on live project briefs for real gallery exhibitions and design clients.
You'll explore a variety of approaches to making art, including new and unusual techniques.
You'll complete individual assignments that allow personal expression and freedom of choice.
You'll build a professional portfolio of work to support further study or employment.
You'll learn how to respond to design briefs and develop ideas from concept to finished outcome.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of taught sessions and individual project work in the classroom at COPC Highbury Campus. Assessment is through coursework, assignments, and portfolio development. Projects include live briefs for external clients and gallery exhibitions. An initial assessment takes place before the course begins, alongside a portfolio interview, to confirm the right level for you.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. COPC Highbury Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and clients.
Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital media.
Visual merchandiser: design retail displays and in-store environments.
Art technician: support artists and designers in studios or colleges.
Junior designer: entry-level role in a design studio or agency.
Photography assistant: support photographers on shoots and productions.
Printmaker: produce limited-edition artwork using print techniques.
What you could study next
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 4): the standard route into a degree in art or design at most UK universities.
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related subject: a three-year degree for those wanting to specialise further.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design (Level 5): a two-year vocational route with strong links to industry.
