BTEC Introductory & First Diplomas in Art & Design

What it's all about?

These two courses are ideal for students who don't have a great deal of art and design experience and wish to develop their practical skills and knowledge further, or require to build a portfolio of work in order to progress onto one of our National Diploma courses. Both courses will enable you to develop your drawing, painting and making skills through a series of art and design activities, and you'll be introduced to a range of specialist areas such as photography, graphic design, textiles, print-making and 3D work using wood, metal and clay. This will allow you to build a portfolio of work and gain the qualifications needed to progress to a National Diploma course.

Is this the course for you?

If you are 16 years old or over and enjoy drawing, painting, making or designing things, then this may be the course for you. During your interview, we'll look at your past work and take into account the qualification grades you hold or expect to gain. That way, we'll be able to help decide on the right course level for you. We'll also continue to monitor and assess your abilities during the early stages of the course to make sure you are placed at the right level.

Course content

Both courses are made up of compulsory and optional units, completed via a series of practical projects assessed throughout the year. The 3D project work will also lead to an additional Diploma Award in 3D Design at levels 1 or 2. As part of the programme, you will study Personal & Professional Development and attend a range of other enrichment activities including trips and exhibitions.

Assessment

You will complete projects, which are marked throughout the course.

Resources

The course is mainly studio-based, but you will also work in specialist workshops such as clay, metal, wood, computers and photography.

Study visits

Visits usually include exhibitions, museums and galleries.

Progression & career opportunities

From level 1 Introductory Diploma in Art, Design & Media, students who achieve the minimum of a merit grade can progress to the level 2 First Diploma in Art & Design course. Students who successfully achieve the minimum of a merit grade at level 2 First Diploma in Art & Design may progress to a wide range of National Diploma specialist courses such as Graphic Design, Fashion, Clothing & Textile Design, or the general National Diploma Art & Design.