Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Newport – Isle of Wight College

CostFREE
Duration72 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Art and Design Practice Course in Newport. Classes run at Isle of Wight College, full-time during the day.

The course covers a broad range of art and design disciplines, with a strong focus on design industry practice. You'll explore drawing, visual communication, digital media, and specialist design areas. The course runs over 72 weeks. You'll need five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English and Maths, though other experience and qualifications are also considered.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design Practice.

Who this course is for

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Photography provides the knowledge, understanding and skills for learners wishing to enter upon a career in photography or progress to higher education

Entry requirements

The Isle of Wight College hasstandard entry requirementsfor full-time college courses, depending on the level of the course to be studied.

Five GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above including English and maths are required although account will be taken of other experience and qualifications; equally important are your enthusiasm, commitment and your willingness to work hard on all areas of the course. You will have the opportunity to show any existing work at the interview stage.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop drawing and observational skills across a range of media.
  • You'll explore visual communication and design principles.
  • You'll work with digital tools and software used in the design industry.
  • You'll experiment with materials, processes, and techniques in a structured way.
  • You'll build a portfolio of creative work across different design disciplines.
  • You'll research and respond to design briefs, developing your own creative ideas.
  • You'll study the context and history of art and design to inform your practice.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based projects, practical workshops, and design briefs. Assessment is mainly through a portfolio of coursework and project work rather than written exams. You'll present and reflect on your work throughout the course. Classes are delivered in person at Isle of Wight College during the day.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Isle of Wight College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer, creates visual content for brands and businesses.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital media.
  • Photographer, works in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs in-store displays and retail environments.
  • Junior web designer, supports digital design projects for websites and apps.
  • Art and design technician, assists in studios, galleries, or educational settings.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, a degree for those wanting to specialise in design for industry.
  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, for those drawn toward studio practice and exhibition work.
  • BA (Hons) Photography, a degree route for those focusing on image-making.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design, a two-year higher education qualification that can lead into a degree top-up.

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