If you are looking for a visually exciting and creative course in textiles, then this is the course for you. You will be inspired through a variety of mixed media, techniques, resources and specialist teaching to develop your abilities and realise your creativity as a designer.
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.
You will be introduced to specialist areas of study in the first year including exploring textiles, embroidered textiles, fabric manipulation and production techniques. At the same time you will be taught fashion design, surface pattern and fashion illustration. The teaching team are all experts in their fields.
The second year will give you the opportunity to specialise in the area you want to study further. You will be taught how to demonstrate your skills and show an understanding of the design process and the production and presentation of finished work.
There are several educational visits each year, including residential trips to Paris and London. Last year day visits included trips to Bath and Bristol as well as to Graduate Fashion Week and Clothes Show Live.
The course is assessed through practical and written assignments,
continuous assessment and external moderation. Your progress is
monitored through tutorials and seminars. You will gain an EdExcel
BTEC qualification for this course.
Successful completion of this Diploma course will enable you
to automatically progress on to the University of Arts validated
Foundation in Art and Design as a part of your fast track programme
(please note, you will need both courses to progress as they form
part of a two year developmental pathway for your benefit). After
this, students can consider Higher Education on one of the various
degree pathways either here at Somerset College or other institutions,
before following a career in the creative industries. A career in fashion
design, textile design or costume could follow.
Four 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, or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk