Level 3 Art and Design Course in Keighley

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design Practice in Keighley. Classes run at Keighley College, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though a Learner Loan may be available to help.

The course lets you specialise in Fine Art, Photography, Graphic Design, or 3D Design. You'll develop advanced technical skills and critical thinking alongside a professional creative practice. The course runs over one year and prepares you for university or a career in the creative industries.

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

Who this course is for

Students who have a strong interest in art and design and wish to specialise in a particular field such as Fine Art, Photography, Graphic Design, or 3D Design. Those aiming to progress to university or a career in the creative industries, such as design, media, advertising, or illustration. Learners who wish to develop advanced technical skills, critical thinking, and professional art practice.

Entry requirements

GCSEs in English and Maths (Grade 4 or above). GCSE Art or Design (Grade 4 or above) or a relevant Level 2 qualification with a strong portfolio. A keen interest in further developing your artistic and technical skills, with a desire to specialise in a particular area of art and design.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop specialist skills in a chosen area such as Fine Art, Photography, Graphic Design, or 3D Design.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of creative work.
  • You'll practise critical and contextual thinking about art and design.
  • You'll explore materials, processes, and techniques relevant to your specialism.
  • You'll develop your ability to research and respond to creative briefs.
  • You'll strengthen your understanding of the creative industries and professional practice.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based projects, practical workshops, and written assignments. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, portfolio submissions, and externally set tasks marked by Pearson Edexcel. There are no written exams in the traditional sense. Your portfolio of work is central to how you are assessed throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Graphic designer, creates visual content for brands and media.
  • Illustrator, produces artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital platforms.
  • Photographer, works in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography.
  • Art and design assistant, supports creative projects in studios or agencies.
  • Visual merchandiser, designs in-store displays for retail brands.
  • Multimedia designer, creates digital content across web and social media.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, for those wanting to deepen their studio practice at degree level.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, a natural next step for those specialising in design.
  • BA (Hons) Photography, for learners focusing on photographic practice.
  • Higher National Certificate in Art and Design, a shorter higher-level option before a full degree.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, for those wanting a broader creative foundation before specialising.

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