Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Leicester – Gateway Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Cambridge Technical Subsidiary Diploma in Art and Design Course in Leicester. Classes run at Gateway Sixth Form College, full-time during the day. You'll need 2 to 4 GCSEs at grade 2 (E) or above, including maths and English, or Entry Level Functional Skills. The course runs for 12 months and covers practical art and design skills across a range of creative disciplines. This OCR cambridge technical subsidiary diploma in art and design qualification gives you a solid grounding for creative careers or further study.

Who this course is for

This practical course is a useful foundation for anyone thinking of pursuing a career in health and social care, working in organisations such as residential homes, hospitals, nurseries and schools. You don't need any previous experience but you should have an interest in caring for and helping people.

Entry requirements

2-4 GCSEs at grade 2 (E) or above - including maths and English or entry level functional skills.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills across a range of art and design disciplines.
  • You'll explore creative techniques used in professional art and design contexts.
  • You'll produce a portfolio of work demonstrating your creative development.
  • You'll learn to analyse and respond to design briefs.
  • You'll study the work of artists and designers to inform your own practice.
  • You'll develop skills in presenting and communicating your creative ideas.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical studio-based work and classroom sessions. Assessment is through coursework and a portfolio of creative projects rather than written exams. You'll build your portfolio throughout the year, with work assessed against set briefs and personal creative development.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Gateway Sixth Form 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.
  • Visual merchandiser: design displays for retail environments.
  • Art technician: support artists and designers in studios or schools.
  • Photography assistant: work alongside photographers on shoots.
  • Design studio assistant: support creative teams on client projects.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design (OCR or other awarding body): a larger qualification that carries more UCAS points and strengthens university applications.
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4): a specialist pre-degree year widely used as a route into art and design degree programmes.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Degree in Art, Design, or a related creative subject: for those aiming at professional creative careers.

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