Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Practice

Unsure which creative degree is right for you? The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is a one year pre-degree programme which gives you the opportunity to experience a range of specialist subject areas and enable you to build a comprehensive portfolio of creative work. The emphasis of the course is geared towards exploration of ideas, materials and concepts which can then be directed through a selected specialist pathway of study. This highly recognised course will prepare you for application and entry to higher education establishments across the country.

Exploratory Phase:

The exploratory phase of the course will allow you to experiment with diverse media, materials, techniques and processes across a wide range of specialist skills areas. You will develop an understanding of 2D and 3D design processes, observational drawing techniques, research skills and critical analysis through the development of personal project work. Content areas taught throughout the year include investigation, experimentation, evaluation, review, realisation, communication and self-directed practice. This broad and experimental approach will enable you to make an informed decision regards your specialist pathway and create a diverse portfolio of work for your future progression aims. Examples of specialist pathways include, fine art, animation, illustration, games design, textiles, surface pattern, fashion, product design, architecture, jewellery design, 3D design, set design, costume design, film, photography etc.

Confirmatory Phase:

During the confirmatory phase, you will plan and produce a final major project that draws upon the summation of knowledge and skills acquired during the course. You will be encouraged to extend personal ambition whilst understanding the professional context for presenting your finished work through a final exhibition.

Ideally, you will need a Level 3 qualification in an Art related subject, supported by 5 GCSE's at grades 9-4. A portfolio of work is required to be discussed at interview.

Throughout the duration of the exploratory phase of the course, formative assessment will measure your progress and provide you with feedback to guide your ongoing development. You will produce a portfolio of coursework which will be submitted along with the work you have produced for the confirmatory stage (Final Major Project). This work will then be assessed collectively, for the summative assessment at the end of the course. Work submitted will be verified by an external examiner and final grades awarded for the qualification (Pass, Merit or Distinction). UCAS Points: Distinction 112, Merit 96, Pass 80.

If you wish to find out more you can contact Cheryl Smith, Course Leader, by emailing: cheryl.smith@nscg.ac.uk and see Instagram; onebigfad.

Over many years our students have applied successfully to study in a wide range of specialist areas. The course genuinely covers every area of art and design and leads to degree level study and careers including the following: Advertising, Illustration/Animation, Textile Design, Fashion Design/management, Three Dimensional Design, Furniture Design, Product Design, Jewellery Design, Architecture, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Model Making/Special Effects Design, Film, Photography, History of Art & Design, Museum & Gallery Management, Art & Design Education, Fine Art, Sculpture and Printmaking.

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18.

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a gross household income under £30,000 can receive financial support to cover college related costs such as transport, meals, course equipment and uniform. Bursary support is based on individual circumstances and will be allocated to best suit your individual needs. A range of other financial support is available depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance