Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Stamford. Classes run full-time at Stamford College, over 36 weeks. You'll explore visual language, research skills, and project development through live projects, building critical and contextual awareness along the way. The course gives you access to industry-standard Adobe Creative Suite software and traditional media including a print room. To apply, you'll need to submit a portfolio and attend an interview.
Who this course is for
Develop the necessary skills to kick-start your career in the creative industries with this attractive alternative to A Levels. You will deepen your knowledge of photography and visual communication through experimenting with camera controls 35mm and medium format digital darkroom studio lighting and composition. You will work on a range of real life projects and produce a focused portfolio of work ready for university or employment.
Entry requirements
5 GCSEs at grades 4/C or above including English and maths and an arts-based subject at grade 6/B or above. Alternatively a Merit in a relevant Level 2 Diploma and a GCSE grade 4/C in English and maths or a pass for functional skills Level 2 English and Maths.This course requires an interview/informal chat before a place can be offered and before your interview you will need to submit a portfolio of artwork to demonstrate your artistic strengths. You will also be set
What you will learn
You'll develop visual language skills through live, project-based work.
You'll build research skills and learn how to propose and realise creative projects.
You'll strengthen your critical and contextual awareness of art and design.
You'll use industry-standard Adobe Creative Suite software on college computers.
You'll work with traditional media, including the Creative Arts department print room.
You'll produce a body of work that demonstrates your artistic and technical development.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a series of live projects in a classroom and studio setting. Assessment is through practical work, project proposals, and the realisation of creative briefs. You'll build a portfolio of work that shows your development across the course. Critical and contextual studies are woven into the projects, so written and reflective work also forms part of your assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide access to Adobe Creative Suite software and traditional media facilities including the print room. Stamford College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to submit a portfolio of artwork as part of the application process before your interview.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: create visual content for brands and media.
Illustrator: produce artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital platforms.
Photographer: work in commercial, editorial, or studio photography.
Visual merchandiser: design in-store displays and retail environments.
Art technician: support artists and designers in studios or colleges.
Junior designer: entry-level role in a design agency or in-house team.
Printmaker: produce work using traditional or digital print techniques.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, or Photography at university. The University of the Arts London Diploma is well regarded for university applications in creative subjects.
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4): a one-year course that many universities require or recommend before a creative degree.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a work-focused route into the creative industries at Level 4 or 5.
