This is an exciting, challenging and rewarding course that offers you the opportunity to explore your creative potential and develop your skills.
Launched in September 2011 the innovative two year programme
within the School of Art and Design enables students to complete
their Diploma with the additional Foundation Diploma in two years
rather than three.
Working with specialist staff and facilities, you will complete a
Level 3 Diploma in year one in your chosen specialist area.
On successful completion, you will them automatically progress
onto the second year which is the Foundation Diploma in Art and
Design validated by the University of the Arts London - see page 28
for further information on this specific course.
In year one students follow a generic first term in being introduced
to the principles of art, whilst expressing self creativity and building
and developing core skills needed within art and design. You will
then develop your specialism through different workshops and
studio activities in your second and third terms culminating in your
Final Major Project.
You can specialise in the following areas with this course:
• Graphic Design
• Interactive Media
• 3D - Product Design
• Textiles
• Fine Art
• Fashion and Clothing
• Photographic and Creative Media Imaging
In year two you will follow an exciting and challenging Foundation
Diploma programme that allows the individual to develop their
creative potential in their arts practice. Lecturers work closely with
you throughout the year in developing your more independent study
and developing your portfolio ready for higher education progression.
The new model allows a faster access to either university level study
or a vocational profession with a more flexible and responsive
approach should your circumstances changes throughout your time
with us.
During your first year you will be introduced to a range of the
principles of design, and ways of looking, thinking and expressing
ideas visually. We will teach you skills of drawing, how to use
colour with effect, how to work in 3D and how to use computers in
application to creative ideas development. You will learn how to
research and develop your ideas creatively, and how to visualise
them, talk about them and write about them.
The team are experts in their field and, alongside your personal tutor,
they will purposefully support and guide you through your course.
As a fine artist you will communicate with the world by exploring,
interpreting, explaining, expressing and finding employment
in a wide and diverse field using an extensive range of media
and technologies such as photography, video, sound, paint and
computers. This programme will enable you to develop your creative
‘spirit’ to its full potential. Your practical studio-based experience is
enriched through a stimulating programme of visits. Previous years
have included visits to New York, Venice, London, Oxford and St Ives,
as well as the opportunity to talk with artists and designers.
Practical and written assignments, continuous assessment and external moderation. Your progress is monitored by tutorials and seminars
If you are thinking of progressing onto a degree, this course will help you decide which degree will be most suitable for your skills and interest. The study of painting or sculpture, the use of multi-media, graphic design, fashion or textile design, interior design, theatre design, photography or new media design are some routes you could follow.
Many of our students progress internally onto a Foundation Degree or Honours Degree here at Somerset College.
4 GCSEs at grades A* to C or a First Diploma in Design or equivalent. You will be invited to an interview and asked to bring some examples of your work
For further guidance and advice contact the Careers Team on 01823 366 331