Level 3 Art and Design Course in Maidenhead. Classes run at Berkshire College of Agriculture, full-time during the day. You'll explore a wide range of disciplines, including graphic design, textiles, photography, fine art, and 3D design. Practical projects run alongside study of artists and designers working in the creative industries. The course runs for 35 weeks. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English or maths, plus a portfolio of creative work.
Who this course is for
This course is for those wanting to develop their art skills further through a wide range of art and design mediums to pursue a specialist career in the creative industries. Our students are introduced to the creative process through a series of exploratory sessions and practical, themed, projects covering a range of disciplines including graphic design, textiles, photography, fine art, 3D and 4D design. These projects are underpinned with an insight into the work of artists and designers which develops students’ understanding of design principles and enabling the skills to visualise their ideas. Students develop a portfolio of work to make applications to university, training programmes, apprenticeships or self-employment. You will learn through a combination of workshops, practical/theory sessions, lectures, online sessions, practical assignment work and regular reflective practice. The study programme culminates in an Art Show open to the public.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above. One of these must be English or maths. A strong portfolio of creative work.
What you will learn
You'll work across graphic design, textiles, photography, fine art, and 3D and 4D design.
You'll develop practical skills through themed, project-based work.
You'll study the work of established artists and designers to inform your own practice.
You'll explore the creative process through exploratory and experimental sessions.
You'll build a body of work suited to progression in the creative industries.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on projects in the classroom. Work is assessed through a portfolio of creative work built up over the course. Projects are themed and cover multiple disciplines, giving you a broad range of work to present. Assessment is based on the work you produce rather than written exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Berkshire College of Agriculture will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: creating visual content for brands and media
Textile designer: designing patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors
Photographer: working in commercial, editorial, or portrait photography
Visual artist: producing work for galleries, commissions, or exhibitions
Art technician: supporting studios, galleries, or educational settings
Creative assistant: supporting design teams in agencies or studios
What you could study next
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3): a common next step before applying to a degree.
BA (Hons) in Graphic Design, Fine Art, Textiles, or Photography: degree-level study at a university or arts college.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a two-year higher education route, often available at further education colleges.
