National Pathway in Art & Design

Level 1  GNVQ Foundation
Level 2  GNVQ Intermediate
Level 3  National Diploma

Enter at the level to suit you.

levels 1 & 2
One year courses covering a mixed range of approaches to ideas & materials. You can progress through levels 1 & 2 to level 3, or enter at the level appropriate to your qualifications.

level 3
A two year course leading to university. You choose your specialism from a range of: fine art, 3D design, graphics, illustration, textiles & fashion.
 

Level 1 GNVQ Foundation
Level 2 GNVQ Intermediate
These courses will help you to develop your understanding of art, craft and design and will introduce you to ideas, materials, techniques and technologies. The aim of these courses is to give you an excellent start to your career in Art and Design. You will cover an exciting range of projects over the course which will give you opportunities to develop your imaginative and creative faculties as well as introducing you to many different activities in 2D and 3D. Key skills: Numeracy, Communications and Information Technology are integrated with project work and are an essential part of both courses.

Assessment (levels 1 & 2)
You will collect work in a portfolio and a file which is assessed as you go along, usually after a project or assignment. Regular tutorials with your personal tutor will help you to gain confidence. You will also take short tests for some of the units. Display and presentation of your work are important aspects of assessment. Grades are given at Pass, Merit and Distinction.
    You will receive a Certificate for GNVQ Foundation or Intermediate in Art and Design on completion of your level 1 or level 2 course. This qualification is equal to four or five GCSEs at Grades C, D, E depending on whether you get Pass, Merit or Distinction for level 1 and grades A, B or C at level 2.

Level 3 National Diploma in Art and Design
The two year course offers you the chance to discover and enhance your understanding of Art and Design by a very practical experience. You are taught on a structured programme by a team of practicing artists and designers and the course will deepen your understanding of your work and that of others. The course involves work in both 2D and 3D processes, methods and materials. This work is complemented by slide lectures, visits to galleries, exhibitions, museums and sites of importance and interest.
    After a diagnostic period, during which you will be introduced to a number of areas, you will choose an area of specialism from Fine Art, 3D Design, Graphics, Textiles, Fashion and Illustration to follow for the rest of the course. By doing this you will have a broad understanding of different areas of Art and Design and a specialist portfolio reflecting your individuality and creativity.
    In addition to developing a specialist Art and Design portfolio you will be involved in enhancing the key skill areas of Application of Number, Communication and Information Technology.

Assessment (level 3)
Assignments are assessed continuously, leading to an end of year exhibition which is open to the public. At every stage you will discuss your progress with the tutors so that you will be fully aware of the development you are making. Our tutorial system will ensure that you have the support and guidance needed for you to make informed decisions about directions you wish to take.

all three courses require:
ï an interest in art & design
ï a folder of artwork
ï a desire to develop & improve skills

formal entry requirements
Level 1: GCSE D-F in a range of subjects
Level 2: GCSE C-E in a range of subjects
Level 3: four GCSEs grades A-C.
Mature and international students are also invited to make an application.

how to apply
In the first instance you should apply for the level that you feel is appropriate to you. All applicants are given an interview and during this you will be given advice as to exactly which level you would be most suited.

Progression and Career Opportunities
Following your Intermediate Art and Design you might decide to:
ï take an advanced course which is the two year National Diploma in Art and Design. From this course you will be able to enter Higher Education for Degree or Higher National Diploma courses.
ï take another specialist National Diploma course such as Media Studies, Performing Arts, Popular Music
ï start work. An Intermediate GNVQ is a good basis for work in the design industries at a basic level. However, we recommend a further course to enable you to develop your skills.
    Successful completion of level 3 can lead into a great range of Higher Education specialisms including Graphic Design, Animation, Illustration, Textiles, Fashion, Fine Art, Interior Design and Three Dimensional Design. This course has an exceptional high placement rate to Universities and colleges of Higher Education.

Other Information
This course offers an opportunity to study in Italy on a student exchange programme which can be extended to up to six weeks.
You will be a member of the SOVAPA film club where you you will have the opportunity to view 18 films a year selected by staff and students.

For further details contact:
Pete Webster or Maggie Edwards on 01323 636017