Our art and design curriculum will allow you to research, experiment and develop ideas in lively and diverse creative environments. This is an exciting and immersive course that prepares you for degree study and a creative career in the future. Our programme is a chance for students to discover, experiment and explore across a wide range of disciplines. You will explore a range of subjects and learn specialist techniques through experimentation and risk-taking. This course will encourage you to move beyond your comfort zone and establish skills and processes that you will be able to apply independently in the future.

Initially the course is predominantly taught sessions and practiced techniques however as the course progresses a balance will be made between this and your own independent creative decisions. Our tutors will introduce you to a variety of approaches, opinions and techniques and you will be encouraged to stretch yourself and develop a broad and engaging portfolio of work.

The course comprises of a number of projects that lead towards a FMP (Final Major Project). Each project has a different technical and contextual focus and covers a range of materials and processes such as:

• Drawing and Painting
• Mixed Media
• Mono Printing
• Sculpture
• Model making
• Screen Printing
• Constructed Textiles
• Digital Art

Your learning will take place in state-of the-art facilities including a professional ceramics workshop, a specialist screen printing resource plus numerous PC and Mac suites. You will take part in formal lessons, demonstrations and practical workshops as well as live projects, work experience, visits, trips and talks.

Assessment is through coursework. You will complete 3 proprietary projects based on set themes throughout the year, then you will undertake a self-directed FMP (final major project) that will be internally assessed and externally moderated. Your progress will be monitored through various methods within these projects. At the end of the year your FMP project will be exhibited at the end of year awards ceremony.

You will require a starter kit for your assignment work and personal projects. Resources are provided but it would be beneficial for you to have your own personal art kit. We have numerous trips, visits and events (local, national and international) throughout the year such as Liverpool and London plus opportunities to work on Live briefs with organisations such as the BBC and the NHS.

You will develop an individual approach to problem-solving and over the duration of the course you will produce work that will allow you to progress into your chosen specialist creative field. Typical progression routes at University are:

• Architecture
• Fine Art
• Illustration
• Graphic Design
• Fashion Design
• Fashion Promotion
• Photography
• Concept Art
• Animation
• Interior Design
• Textile design
• Surface Design

You will require a starter kit for your assignment work and personal projects. Resources are provided but it would be beneficial for you to have your own personal art kit. We have numerous trips, visits and events (local, national and international) throughout the year such as Liverpool and London plus opportunities to work on Live briefs with organisations such as the BBC and the NHS.

You need five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 9-4 (A* - C). A GCSE at grade 4 (C) in either English Language or Maths with a minimum grade 3 (D) for the other subject. You’ll also need either a grade C (4) or above in an art related subject or a portfolio of work to show your artistic talent.