Course Summary
The Art and Design National Extended Diploma Level 3 is designed for intermediate students that are interested in progressing to Higher Education. This course expands on technical skills and creative thinking, offering a comprehensive exploration of various Art and Design disciplines to prepare students for advanced studies. You will learn and be assessed by completing practical assignments that will enable you to develop your practical skills in many areas of art and design, including fine art, painting, sculpture, ceramics, metalwork, print, plaster, photography, 3D design, graphic design and 4D time-based media.
As a Creative, Cultural and Business student, you will have access to all our Art, Design and Media facilities, which include two art studios, a photography studio, a darkroom, and a television studio. You will also be using industry standard software.
What else do I need to know?
During this course, you will study a variety of units covering the different art practices including:
- Fine Art
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Ceramics
- Metalwork
- Plaster
- Photography
- 3D Design
- Graphic Design
- 4D Time-based Media
You will cover a range of topics which may include:
- Learning about how other artists made their work
- How to research to generate ideas and how to analyse artwork
- Developing your visual awareness
- Developing your drawing ability
You will also undertake a work placement alongside your studies at the College. Staff will support with this as much as possible, and it is hoped that students will find their own opportunity for a work placement.
During the course, you will also have the opportunity to complete the qualification in Earth Week – Tackling the Climate Emergency Level 3.
To study the Art and Design Extended Diploma Level 3, you will need to have 5 GCSEs at grades 4 or above (Old GCSE grade C or above) or equivalent, including English or Maths. You will also need a portfolio of work for review if you are invited for an interview.
If you do not have a portfolio of work to bring to interview, you may be set a task to complete within 2 weeks as a condition to enrolment.
The Art and Design National Diploma Level 3 will take you 2 years to complete. You will attend college from 9:00am-4:30pm for a minimum of 3 days per week at our Rochford Campus in Boston, plus independent study.
This course is free if you are under the age of 19 on 31 August of the year you start the course.
If you are aged 19+, there may be fees for this course, please enquire with the Registry Department for further information on 01205 365701 or email fees@boston.ac.uk.
Please note that all fees are subject to change.
You will be assessed through practical assessments (70%) and theory assessments (30%), including group work, work-based evidence, coursework, presentations and performances.
Successfully completing this course will provide you with the opportunity to advance to Higher Education, where you can explore a wide range of disciplines within Art and Design. Whether you are interested in fine art, graphic design, fashion, illustration, or any other creative field, this qualification will serve as a strong foundation for University Level study. It will equip you with essential skills, knowledge, and experience, preparing you for a rewarding academic journey or career in the arts.
To explore University Level courses available at Boston College, visit our University Level page.
Additional costs educational visits and/or workshops, which cost approximately £30 per year. You will also be expected to provide your own art and design materials, including paints, sketchbooks and printing costs.
How to Apply.
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