How long will I study this course for?
2 Years

What do I need to get on this course?
4 GCSEs at grade C or above plus portfolio of artwork to study a BTEC Extended Diploma and a NCFE

5 GCSEs at grade A-C plus portfolio of artwork to study a BTEC Extended Diploma and an A-level

The portfolio could include evidence of drawing, mixed media exploration, colour, design ideas and notes.

What Will I study?

• You will explore and experiment with a wide range of conventional and unconventional materials, techniques and processes in both 2D and 3D, which will enable you to develop a personal style through assignment briefs
• You will develop a wide range of expressive and observational visual recording skills with traditional and non traditional techniques, develop skills in presentation and computer aided design through a wide range of computer software packages
• You develop the skills to enable you to generate, develop and create contemporary ideas in response to a brief
• The course allows you to develop an individual style and artistic identity in design and making projects
• You can learn how to develop and extend practical 2D and 3D skills within projects and assignments
• Importantly, you will develop and build an extensive portfolio of work, experimenting and investigating a wide range of specialist 2D and 3D craft areas showcasing practical work, and exploring design craft materials in relation to jewellery, ceramics, applied art, textiles, interiors and fashion
• You will study in specialist studios and workshops, gain knowledge of techniques, materials and equipment used within the design craft industries
• You will explore future education and career opportunities, participate in live assignments and competitions creating opportunities to sell and exhibit work
• You will gain great insight in to the design industry through educational visits to local and national museums, galleries, craft centres, working design studios and events. Opportunities for national and European residential visits.

What else can I study?
This course allows you to study an A-Level in Textiles or a NCFE qualification.

What can I do after this course?
You can progress onto a range of courses at Degree or Foundation Degree level.

Design Crafts allows for progression on to a wide variety of courses in individual specialist areas or broader multi-disciplinary programmes.

What career paths does this course help me get into?
Ceramicist, Applied Artist, Jewellery Maker, Costume Designer, Textile Artist, Fashion Designer, Theatre Designer and Prop Designer.

Live projects / Trips / competitions
You will be involved in live projects and competitions. Live assignments usually result in exhibition of student work. Trips are developed throughout year 1 and year 2 to local and national cities, international visits could include cities such as Venice, Barcelona and London.