Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Maidstone. Classes run full-time at MidKent College Maidstone Campus. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths, to join. The course covers practical, theoretical and transferable skills across art, design and communication, with a focus on photography. You'll work in professional photographic studios and develop technical skills supported by an expert team.
Who this course is for
The Creative Industries touch almost every other sector in the UK. You will develop an understanding of the Photography sector that will enable you to confidently enter the industry. The course will provide you with the opportunity to learn practical, theoretical and transferable skills. Supported by our expert Photography team, you will practice and develop technical skills that will give you the fundamental knowledge needed to succeed. You will have access to our photographic studios with industry standard equipment such as DSLR cameras, lenses and lighting. In addition, you will benefit from access to professional standard digital imaging and editing software, including Adobe Creative Suite, Photoshop, Bridge and Light-Room. You will be taught via workshops, seminars, lectures and also expected to utilise independent study time. You will study a range of units, through a series of projects incorporating theoretical and practical learning. Practical topics include: camera operation, editing, lighting, location and studio shooting. In addition, you will study theory and concepts including visual communication, professional practice and self reflection. You will also develop soft skills in teamwork, communication, planning, evaluation and problem solving. You will demonstrate your learning through practical tasks, written narrative, analysis and presentations, whilst using sketchbooks and online platforms to document the development of your practical and written work. There are elements of extensive written work including evaluation, reflections and essays. You will also be expected to deliver presentations. The course is made up of two one year programmes. In the first year you will study the UAL L3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication (Photography). If you complete this successfully with the minimum of a Pass, you will be able to progress to the second year, when you will study the UAL L3 Extended Diploma in Creativ
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including English and maths at grade 4/C or above.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical photography skills, including studio and technical techniques.
You'll build theoretical knowledge of the photography and creative industries sector.
You'll practise art and design skills across visual communication and creative practice.
You'll apply transferable skills relevant across the wider creative industries.
You'll work with professional photographic studio equipment.
You'll produce a body of creative work demonstrating your development as a practitioner.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of practical studio sessions, classroom-based theory, and project work. Assessment is through coursework, portfolio development, and practical assignments. You'll be supported by a specialist photography and creative arts team throughout the course. All learning takes place on campus during daytime hours.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. MidKent College Maidstone Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Photographer: work in commercial, portrait or editorial photography.
Graphic designer: create visual content for print and digital media.
Art director: lead visual concepts for campaigns and publications.
Illustrator: produce artwork for books, advertising and media.
Visual merchandiser: design in-store displays and retail environments.
Content creator: produce photo and visual content for brands and social media.
Studio assistant: support photographers and creative teams on shoots.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Photography or Fine Art: a degree at a UK university, building directly on this level 3 art and design qualification.
BA (Hons) Graphic Design or Illustration: another degree route for those focusing on design and communication.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Creative Media Production: a two-year higher-level qualification if you want to stay in further education before a degree.
University of the Arts London Foundation Diploma in Art and Design: a specialist pre-degree course that prepares you for competitive art school applications.
