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Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Wakefield – Wakefield College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, full-time during the day, over two years. This is a University of the Arts London Extended Diploma focused on fashion and textiles. In year one you work toward the Diploma, exploring surface design, textile techniques, and fashion projects. In year two you progress to the Extended Diploma, developing a more specialised body of work. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 9 to 4, including English or Maths, plus a portfolio and interview.

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for passionate photographers who want to explore the medium of photography while achieving a nationally recognised qualification. The course provides students with an exceptional portfolio ensuring access to University. You will also receive valuable advice on how to get started as a professional photographer.

The study programme will allow you to explore creative photography and develop a career in the photographic industry by completing projects based on realistic workplace situations, artistic live briefs and activities. This course will give you the skills you need to become a creative photographer with professional industry skills and an in-depth insight into the creative and artistic world of photography.

The Level 3 qualification is designed for students who want to further develop their photography knowledge and skills and develops students’ knowledge, skills and understanding in areas such as camera techniques, image processing and manipulation, history of photography and styles of photography such as portrait, location and documentary. It is the substantial qualification component of the study programme and aims to help students develop the skills and understanding required to work in the sector or to undertake further learning.

They will also research job opportunities or freelance options and assess their strengths in areas such as positive attitude, punctuality and self-motivation.

Skills include: Using SLR and DSLR cameras, Composition and visual design, Visual language and communication, Contextual awareness, Professional Practice, Recording Light, Problem solving, Concept development, Critique, Professional studio and Location Practice, 3D photography and design, Introduction to research, Introduction to Evaluation and Reflection, Professional Workflow, Project Development, Digital Manipulation, Digital interfaces, Analogue photography processes, Mixed Media techniques and processes.

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at Grade 9-4, including English or Maths and a Grade 3 in either English or Maths. OR 4 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 including English or Maths and a Level 2 in either English or Maths. OR Successful completion of Level 2 at Merit Grade and GCSE English or Maths at Grade 4 and Level 2 English or Maths.

PLUS Satisfactory interview for all options above.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in surface design, including print, stitch, and mixed media techniques.
  • You'll create fashion and textiles projects from initial concept through to finished outcome.
  • You'll build and present sketchbooks that document your ideas and creative process.
  • You'll analyse the work of other designers and artists to inform your own practice.
  • You'll experiment with a wide range of materials and construction methods.
  • You'll produce a specialist body of work in year two, reflecting your chosen direction within fashion and textiles.

How you will learn

Learning is studio-based and project-led. You'll work through set briefs and self-directed projects, producing practical outcomes alongside supporting sketchbooks and written research. Assessment is portfolio-based, with your work reviewed at key points across both years. The Extended Diploma is graded Pass, Merit, or Distinction.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wakefield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Fashion designer: create clothing and textile collections for brands or independently.
  • Textile designer: develop surface patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors.
  • Visual merchandiser: design in-store displays and brand environments.
  • Costume designer: create costumes for theatre, film, or television productions.
  • Fashion stylist: select and coordinate clothing for shoots, events, or clients.
  • Illustrator: produce artwork for fashion, publishing, or commercial clients.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fashion Design or Textile Design: a degree at a university or arts college, building directly on your Extended Diploma portfolio.
  • BA (Hons) Fine Art or Graphic Design: if your interests broaden beyond fashion and textiles during the course.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design: some learners use this as a bridge year before applying to degree courses, to strengthen their portfolio and university application.
Apply on heartofyorkshire.ac.uk →
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