Course requirements: GCSE Maths & English grade 4+ and 1 A Level grade A-C, or National Diploma or equivalent and portfolio are minimum requirements for a place on the course. If aged 19 or over, you also need to submit a project. This course will help you identify your areas of interest and strengths in relation to your application to university or other progression routes. You will learn the fundamental practical and visual skills needed to produce a portfolio of work for a place at university or employment. We also help establish working practices, essential in succeeding at university or employment in the creative industries.

We cover the ideas and processes that underpin professional practice in the creative industries: You will 1 gain a critical and contextual awareness of different perspectives and approaches within art, design or related subjects of study or work 2 research, analyse and evaluate relevant information and ideas to develop creative solutions for your work 3 understand, adapt and safely use appropriate practical methods and skills for creative production 4 solve complex problems through the application of art, design or related practical, theoretical and technical understanding 5 critically review the effectiveness and appropriateness of methods, actions and results 6 You will develop and use evaluative and reflective skills to take responsibility for own learning, development and decision making 7 take responsibility for research, planning, time management and actions to access progression opportunities and what you will do after the course 8 effectively present yourself and your work to a range of audiences.

After an initial diagnostic phase, you will choose a pathway and study your chosen specialist area in greater depth. You must pass the previous two units to progress to this final project which determines your final grade that appears on your certificate. You will exhibit the work from this project in the End-of-Year Show.

You will be taught through a range of studio-based workshops with demonstrations and discussion within your groups. You will work towards the completion of specialist briefs dependant on your pathway, but the emphasis is on a highly personalised approach, matching teaching and learning to the student. Peer-to-peer learning is encouraged through collaborative projects and critiques.

You will take part in live Industry projects set for each pathway and will attend guest speaker sessions.

Resources used within each lesson are available for students on our online learning platform. In addition to the classes, you will be expected to undertake extensive independent practical work and research. You are encouraged to make use of the huge range of galleries and exhibition spaces in central London and regularly visit them independently.

To do well on the course, we would suggest doing at least 15 hours of independent work in addition to the 16 hours of programmed classes. You are also encouraged to enter competitions and exhibitions within the college as well as externally to widen your experience of creative practice.

There is no exam for this course, but assessments take place at the midpoint and endpoint of each of the 3 units. You will need to pass Units 1 and 2 to progress to Unit 3 – the final major project. You will complete an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) which will outline the learning objectives for the course, and you will also set your own goals. You will receive regular feedback from your tutors and written feedback at all assessment points.

The course is designed to support you with your next steps to university, apprenticeship or employment within the creative industries.

The college has an exciting programme of events, exhibitions and competitions throughout the year. Your tutor will make you aware of these, and your participation is welcomed and encourage.

Additional Learning Support (ALS) is available for this course, subject to an interview with a member of our support staff. ALS may include one or more of the following: support in classes, out of class in small groups, workshops or 1:1 with a specialist tutor. Reasonable adjustments including assistive equipment and access support can be made available through our Disability Officer. Please let us know as soon as possible about your learning needs and/or disabilities so we can arrange support at the earliest opportunity.

Teachers are supported to ensure their materials are inclusive to meet learners’ needs. Digital Learning support is available in the Learning Centre.

We offer free support with finding a job, including 1-1 support with job applications, creating a CV or improving your interview skills, as well as advice about progression opportunities. Visit the website for more information or to book an appointment with our Employability Coach.

There are regular cross-college events, external speaker visits, exhibitions, and opportunities for you to get involved in college life. Look out for adverts around the college, iLearn or sign up to Our Newsletter via the website