Higher Education

Art & Design (Foundation Studies)

Purpose

The Foundation Course in Art and Design is for committed students who have already completed an A Level programme, or who wish to build up a portfolio of work in preparation for a specialist Degree or Higher National Diploma in Art & Design.

The main aim of the course is to provide a stimulating environment within which each student can discover and develop their creative potential towards an appropriate area of study.

Course content

The course is delivered in three distinct stages:

Exploratory Stage

Students will explore the potential and limitations of a wide variety of media and materials. There is a strong emphasis on developing skills in observing and recording what you see, hear, think and feel. In particular you will learn to recognise the importance and functions of drawing. Regular life-drawing sessions are an important part of your portfolio development at this stage.

Pathway Stage

Students will bring together skills in working with media and techniques, their ability to select research methods and processes, and they will apply their understanding of the creative process to a number of set assignments. You will be encouraged to develop your own critical understanding of contemporary, historical and related contexts.

Confirmatory Stage

This stage takes the form of a final major project and end of year show. You will be encouraged to move towards specialisation in one of the main areas of study. These include Fine Art, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Textiles, Printmaking, Sculpture and Lens Based Media.

Assessment

Formal assessment is carried out at regular intervals. At the end of the course students are required to mount an exhibition of work.

Entry Requirements

Applicants will normally have completed an A Level in an Art and Design related subject at grade C or higher, and also have achieved a further five GCSE passes at Grade A* - C. You will need to provide evidence of quality sketchbooks or project files at your interview.

If you are a mature student, you will be considered on the basis of experience and the production of a portfolio of work that demonstrates you have reached a level of skill and commitment necessary to benefit from the course. See page 21 ‘How to apply’.

Progression To

This course has been designed to help you make an informed decision about your future in Art and Design. Students are encouraged to continue their studies at degree level.

Key Facts

Code: DD3AF
Level: Level 3
Award: Diploma in Foundation Studies
Awarding Body: Edexcel (Pearson)
Length: 1 Year
Fee: Fees may apply to students over 19 years, price on application. Students aged 24 and over can apply for an FE 24+ Advanced Loan.
Contact: Strode College Admissions Team