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UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media

UAL Level 1 Diploma in Art, Design and Media

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This is a course that introduces you to the basic principles of art and design, with a strong focus on drawing, experimentation and creative thinking skills. This will include artist/designer research and development of your key skills in responding to ideas visually and improving confidence when talking about your own work and that of others.

  • Entry Requirements


    4 x GCSE's grade 2 – 9 including English and maths 

    • An interest in Art and Design
    • A willingness to develop English and Maths skills where required
    • Attendance at an interview and/or presentation of creative work or portfolio

    No previous specialist media qualifications are required, although enthusiasm, creativity and commitment are essential.

  • Course Content


    Projects vary in focus but will include the following practical themes:

    • A project in 2D or 3D
    • Drawing and painting
    • Printmaking
    • Media/photography
    • Animation
    • Digital design
    • Artist research

    You will also be expected to enrol onto English and/or Maths GCSE or Functional Skills if you do not have GCSE Grade 4 or above in either.

    As a student on this course you will have access to dedicated technician support and excellent, industry standard facilities which include:

    • Dedicated print-making room
    • Laser cutter, 3D printer and access to Mac rooms
    • All Art & Design students have access to the full Adobe suite
    • Workshops & studios

  • Progression Next Steps


    Progression is onto the UAL Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design to further your understanding and creative skills within the visual arts. It is also possible to progress onto other relevant courses in media, games, music or performance arts provided minimum criteria is met and courses are available.
    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    You will be provided with some materials whilst on the course but it is also a good idea to get some art materials of your own. Lecturers can advise you what you will need during your interview.

  • Course Structure


    The diploma is run across the academic year and consists of 7 units that are delivered through 5 projects in total. Each project has a different focus so for example one may be concerned with drawing and another may involve using animation or sculpture. This will enable you to produce a large body of work that incorporates many different creative problem solving opportunities that reflect a broad range of visual arts pathways. You can then choose a pathway for your final project of the year. This is an ideal course to start your art education as it provides a very sound basis for the following higher levels of study.

  • Assessment Details


    Projects are generally 5 weeks long and they are assessed halfway through (formative) and at the end (summative). You will have frequent 1:1 support from teachers to help develop your skills and work along with group activities and class demonstrations of new skills. The practical tasks are mapped against the awarding body criteria and help you develop a wide range of skills. The final project of the year is longer as it forms the grade for the whole year with the grades being offered at Pass, Merit and Distinction.

  • Teaching and Learning


    Teaching is delivered through a combination of practical workshops, demonstrations, tutorials, project-based learning and collaborative activities.

    You will:

    Learn through hands-on creative projects Develop technical skills using industry-standard equipment Work independently and as part of a team Receive regular feedback from tutors Participate in discussions, critiques and presentations Research creative practitioners and media industries Build a portfolio showcasing their achievements

    The course emphasises learning by doing, enabling you to develop confidence, creativity and practical skills in a supportive and engaging environment.