Art and Design Level 1

Learn by drawing, designing, making and experimenting with different ideas, materials and techniques. You do not need to know exactly what kind of artist or designer you want to be. This programme gives you the chance to try different creative approaches, discover your strengths and build your skills through practical projects.

You will explore:

• Materials, techniques and creative processes
• Drawing and visual communication
• Researching artists, designers and creative influences
• Developing and presenting your ideas
• Solving 2D creative problems
• Creating 3D work
• Exploring time-based creative work
• Planning and producing your own final creative project

You will use sketchbooks and practical experimentation to develop ideas rather than simply creating a finished piece straight away. As your confidence grows, you will be encouraged to make more of your own creative decisions and take greater responsibility for your projects.

You will learn by doing, developing work through sketchbooks, practical activities, experimentation and project briefs. You will also develop wider skills including communication, teamwork, problem solving, organisation and reflecting on your own progress.

The final project gives you the opportunity to bring together the skills you have developed throughout the year and create work that reflects your own creative interests.

You will normally need:

• Four GCSE passes at grade 2 or above, preferably including English and Maths
• Or an appropriate vocational qualification at an equivalent level

If you have not yet achieved grade 4 in GCSE English and/or Maths, you will continue to study these alongside your main programme.

You may be asked to share examples of your work during the application process. This could include:

• A sketchbook
• Drawings or paintings
• Photography
• Digital artwork
• Design work
• Photographs of physical work you have created

You do not need previous experience of studying art and design.

You will get the most from this programme if you:

• Enjoy being creative and trying new things
• Are willing to experiment with different ideas and materials
• Can listen to feedback and use it to improve your work
• Are prepared to keep trying when something does not work first time
• Can work both independently and with other people
• Are willing to become more organised and responsible for your own work

You do not need to arrive as a confident artist. An interest in being creative and a willingness to develop are more important.

University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media

The most common next step is Art and Design Level 2 at Newbury College.

Depending on the creative direction you discover, you could also consider related programmes such as Digital Promotion for Business Level 2, particularly if you become interested in social media, visual communication or digital content.

Future progression could include:

• Art and Design Level 2
• Digital Promotion for Business Level 2
• Creative and digital apprenticeships
• Further study in art, design, media or related subjects
• Entry-level opportunities within the creative industries

The Art and Design qualification is assessed through practical work and coursework rather than formal written exams. Units are assessed against criteria that define the skills, knowledge and behaviours you need to demonstrate to successfully achieve your qualification. Your tutors will provide feedback throughout your projects to help you refine your work, develop your skills and build evidence of your achievement against the assessment criteria.

Your final project is graded Pass, Merit or Distinction.

English and Maths, where studied alongside your programme, are assessed separately and may include exams.

You will complete regular independent work outside your timetabled sessions.

This may include:

• Developing your sketchbook
• Researching artists and designers
• Collecting images and inspiration
• Practising techniques
• Taking photographs
• Developing ideas
• Completing or preparing project work

Your tutors will review your progress and give you feedback. As the programme develops, you will be encouraged to become more independent and take greater responsibility for managing your own work.

You will develop an understanding of creative careers through work-related activities, which may include:

• Creative briefs
• Group projects
• Visiting speakers
• Exhibitions
• Gallery and museum visits
• Projects linked to the creative industries

• All full-time students are asked to contribute £15 towards the College Subscription Fund
• You will need your own basic art and design kit for day-to-day activities
• A recommended list of tools and materials will be provided at enrolment
• Visits to museums, galleries, exhibitions or other creative venues may have an additional cost