Free Level 3 BTEC Art, Design and Media Foundation Course in Wigan. Classes run full-time at Wigan and Leigh College, five days a week during the day, over 35 weeks. You'll need a portfolio of your current art and design work to apply, plus a short interview with the Course Leader. The course is intensive and hands-on. You'll work across a range of art and media disciplines, developing your creative and conceptual thinking while building a strong personal portfolio. It's designed to prepare you for Higher Education in art, design, or media.
Who this course is for
This course is an intensive, exciting and challenging learning experience which allows you to develop your independence, creativity, awareness and potential, both visually and intellectually. Through this one year programme, you will extend your creative and conceptual skills in a variety of art media and build a strong portfolio of personal work, prior to applying to Higher Education.
Entry requirements
A portfolio of work demonstrating your current level of art and design skills. A short interview will also take place with the Course Leader to discuss your work and future progression intentions.
What you will learn
You'll develop creative and conceptual skills across a range of art and design media.
You'll build a personal portfolio of work to support Higher Education applications.
You'll explore visual communication, composition, and design principles.
You'll experiment with different materials, processes, and techniques.
You'll develop your ability to research, analyse, and respond to creative briefs.
You'll strengthen your independence as a creative practitioner.
You'll reflect critically on your own work and the work of others.
How you will learn
Learning is studio and classroom based, with practical project work at its core. You'll be assessed through a portfolio of work built up over the year, alongside project assignments and a final major project. Assessment is continuous rather than exam-based, so your progress is tracked through the work you produce and present throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer - create visual content for print and digital media.
Illustrator - produce artwork for publishing, advertising, and media.
Photographer - work in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography.
Animator - create moving image content for film, TV, or games.
Art director - lead visual style for campaigns, publications, or productions.
Set or production designer - design environments for theatre, film, or TV.
Visual merchandiser - create in-store displays and brand environments.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography, or Animation - the most common next step. This Diploma is specifically designed to prepare you for a degree application.
BA (Hons) Media Production or Film Studies - if your interest is in screen-based or digital media.
HND in Art and Design (Level 5) - a two-year Higher National qualification if you want a shorter higher-education route before deciding on a full degree.
