The Cambridge Technical Level 3 Introductory Diploma/Extended Diploma in Art and Design is a varied course which aims to develop key skills in a range of art and design areas. Students will develop key knowledge of art theory, artists and creative practitioners. There is a strong vocational aspect to the course and this will allow you to gain experience working on live projects for clients and organise art exhibitions.
Students will study a variety of art and design areas such as fine art, fashion, digital art, advertising and photography which will include some work experience. As part of the course there will be opportunities to demonstrate your skills by undertaking real briefs for local organisations. Recent partners include the National Trust, Barrow Council, Art Gene, Captain Shaw’s Primary School, Rock the Fells festival and other local community organisations and businesses. You will learn through studio workshops and demonstrations, lectures, seminars, project work, visits and exhibitions. You will also need to work independently outside the class. Assessment will be through portfolio and project assessment within College - assessed by your tutor and the external moderation of a sample of work.
This is a 2 year course. Each year is broken down in to 3 units spanning roughly 1 a term. It gives the student the opportunity to try different specialisms in art and design. Developing skills learnt in workshop style lessons, in to developing ideas and producing appropriate outcomes to show their understanding and creative skills.
Assessment for each unit is based on unit specific criteria and broken up in to bite size sections to allow the students to fully understand what is being asked of them and how to achieve the Pass, Merit or Distinction grade.
To study CTec Level 3 Art & Design, you will need to achieve grade 4 or better in GCSE Art / Design & Technology / Textiles (or possibly Media, depending on skills base and portfolio), or Merit or better in Level 2 BTec/CTec in an Art related subject. Also, you need 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or better, including English; you must also meet the general entry requirements.
Following the completion of this course, students either progress into further studies in the art and design field, apply for further courses with Furness College or enter the workplace within the industry. Progression students can move on to the Art Foundation course before going to university.
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