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Art and Design Skills (Photography and Graphics) Diploma level 2
Art and Design Skills (Photography and Graphics) Diploma level 2
Course Overview
Course Code
P00102
Start Date
07/09/2026
Study Hours
Full Time
Duration
1 year
Start time
09:00 am
End time
17:00 pm
Campus
St Margaret's Campus
Level
Level 2
This course is aimed at those who enjoy creative subjects and wish to start a career in graphic design, photography, or interactive media, and want to gain a qualification equivalent to four GCSEs grade 4 or above.
Our established Digital Art Department offers this course aimed at those who are interested in Photography and Graphics. It is a practical course and requires creative talent and a committed attitude. There is a strong emphasis on research, development, and evaluation.
If you are aged 16 to 18, you will be enrolled on a study programme. This will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven't already achieved a grade 4 or above. This qualification is equivalent to four GCSEs grade 4. If you are re sitting GCSE English and Maths you could be studying up to x6 GCSE equivalent on this single year study programme.
You will take part in activities that help you to develop your personal skills, such as building your character and confidence. This will help you to live well and move into your chosen career.
If you are 16-19 years old these activities will be timetabled as will work experience and placement. You can also choose to take part in other activities.
For other age groups, activities will be tailored to your needs.
The course subjects include graphic design, photography, drawing, contextual studies, digital design and photography software, personal development, and a personal project. The first two terms deal with basic skills and assignments in the specialist graphic and photographic areas.
Projects are varied and allow the opportunity to explore and experiment with all pathways, resulting in finished pieces for your own portfolio.
The final term gives you the opportunity to undertake a creative personal project in either photography or graphic design.
Standard entry to this course requires one reference. It is desirable that you can demonstrate 90% attendance. English and an art and/or design related GCSE at grade 3 (D) is required, and maths at grade 3 (D) or above is desirable.
You will also require a portfolio that demonstrates your suitability for your chosen course.
You will require at least three GCSEs at grade 3, one must be in a design-related GCSE related subject(Art/Photography/Graphic Design), one in English (literature or language), and one other. Maths grade 3 is desirable.
You will also require a portfolio which demonstrates your suitability for your chosen course.
- Material fee: £84
- Residential fee: £25
- Annual Tuition fee: £1080
There is a potential trip fee of £20-£25. We will confirm this later in the academic year.
The course is a one-year full-time programme that leads to entry onto our range of level 3 art and design qualifications.
The successful completion of this course provides access to all our BTEC level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma in Art Practice - (these are equivalent to three A levels) including art and design, fashion; graphic design; and photography.
You will also be equipped with the skills and knowledge to undertake junior roles within the art and design industry.
You will be required to achieve a grade 4 or equivalent in English or maths to progress to a level 3 qualification the following academic year.
Apply online via the College website, or if your school uses the Positive Steps @16 (PS16) application system please apply through this and speak to your careers advisor if you are unsure. You will need details of your qualifications and employment history, a reference, and a personal statement to complete your application. Once your application has been successfully processed, you will be sent a conditional offer and be invited to a Welcome Event at the College to meet your tutors, learn more about your chosen course of study and tour the facilities. You will then need to confirm your acceptance of the course offered to you.
Course Overview
Course Code
P00102
Start Date
07/09/2026
Study Hours
Full Time
Duration
1 year
Start time
09:00 am
End time
17:00 pm
Campus
St Margaret's Campus
Level
Level 2