Free Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in London

CostFREE
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Course in London. Classes run at Big Creative Academy London, full-time during the day.

You'll need a Level 3 qualification in art to join. The course runs for 12 months. You'll explore drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, and digital creative processes. Projects range from independent work to client-style briefs, and you'll build a professional portfolio throughout. The course is awarded by University of the Arts London.

You'll finish with a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.

Who this course is for

Our Foundation Diploma in Art & Design is an intensive, practice-based course designed to prepare you to study art and design at a higher level.

Entry requirements

You will need a Level 3 qualification in art to do this foundation course.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop exploratory drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media techniques.
  • You'll carry out contextual research, creative analysis, and critical reflection.
  • You'll respond to client-style briefs and develop solutions to creative challenges.
  • You'll create socially engaged artwork with community or peer groups.
  • You'll practise independent project management and time management.
  • You'll build decision-making and problem-solving skills in contemporary creative practice.
  • You'll develop a professional portfolio that showcases your ideas and creative growth.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based practice in open-plan art studios with access to industry-standard materials and tools. Projects are a mix of independent, collaborative, and client-led work. You'll receive guidance from tutors and feedback from peers throughout. Assessment is through your portfolio and project work, building toward a final body of work that demonstrates your creative development.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide all materials. Big Creative Academy London will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Illustrator, creates images for print, digital, and publishing clients.
  • Fine artist, produces and exhibits original artwork independently or through galleries.
  • Gallery assistant, supports exhibitions and visitor engagement at art venues.
  • Art director, leads visual direction for advertising, publishing, or media projects.
  • Set designer, creates visual environments for theatre, film, or television.
  • Graphic designer, produces visual content for brands and communications.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Fine Art, the natural next step for learners focused on studio practice and exhibition.
  • BA (Hons) Graphic Design, for those drawn to visual communication and branding.
  • BA (Hons) Illustration, for learners who want to specialise in image-making for publishing or media.
  • BA (Hons) Architecture, for those interested in spatial design and the built environment.

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