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Art & Design

As part of the course, you experience a diverse range of approaches, concepts, media and techniques related to the following pathways before choosing your specialist area:

• Art Pathway: Fine Art, Photography, Film
• Communications Pathway: Graphic Design, Illustration, Animation, Visual Effects
• Design Pathway: Fashion, Fashion Styling, Textiles, 3D Product Design, 3D Spatial Design, including Architecture, Interior and Set Design, Crafts.

When you have chosen your pathway, you will start to create personal art and design work in an experimental and investigatory way, using high levels of evaluation, research and contextualisation to underpin the development of your work.

You will have access to specialist workshops in printmaking, ceramics and 3D design to enable you to develop your practical skills.

During the course, you will also take part in a number of exhibitions and presentation scenarios to prepare you for higher education interviews or employment. Teaching staff will be available for feedback and guidance at all times and you will also be assigned a personal tutor from the teaching team who will oversee your progress.

Your learning will be enriched through a variety of site visits across London, providing valuable research opportunities and contextual understanding to support your studies.

  • Entry requirements

    Minimum requirements:

    3 x A Levels or a Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject area required.

    GCSE English or Maths at Grade 4 or above (or equivalent). For international applicants: IELTS English level 5.0 or above, with at least 4.5 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

    Considerations: Other relevant qualifications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

    If you’re under 19 and haven’t achieved a GCSE Grade 4 in English or Maths, we will consider if you can study these alongside the course.

    Interview and Portfolio: You’ll need to attend an interview with a strong portfolio of your work. This can include drawings, sketchbooks, 3D work, digital art, photography, or any other examples of creative thinking.

  • Who is the course for?

    The Level 4 Foundation Art course is for aspiring artists, career changers, and portfolio builders seeking to explore creative disciplines, strengthen skills, and prepare for higher education or creative careers. It bridges education gaps and fosters artistic growth.

  • Study methods

    The Foundation Art and Design course is taught through interactive studio-based critiques, personalised group and individual tutorials, student presentations, portfolio preparation, and exhibitions. It combines written and practical work to foster creativity, technical skills, and professional development.

  • How is the course assessed?

    The Foundation Art and Design course is assessed entirely through coursework, including:

    • Practical projects
    • Written assignments
    • Portfolio submissions
    • Presentations
    • Exhibitions, allowing students to demonstrate creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking.
  • More information

    Links with employers include: Orleans House Gallery.

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    After a Foundation Art and Design course, students can pursue entry-level creative roles, internships, freelancing, entrepreneurship, or volunteering to gain experience and apply their skills directly in the industry.

  • Where Next – Further Studies

    University Degrees: BA programs in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Fashion, Illustration, Photography, Architecture, or Product Design.

    Apprenticeships: Creative industry roles like design, printmaking, or media.

    Specialist Art Schools: Advanced creative studies in specific disciplines.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

Course starting Sep 2025

Starts 1 September 2025

Duration 1 Year(s)

Location Richmond upon Thames Campus

Days/Time Monday-Friday
09:00 - 17:00