Our Level 2 Art and Design course will give you an exciting start to your creative career.
Whether you choose to focus on traditional fine artists and contemporary designers there are so many varied careers to which an art & design course can lead.
On this course you will look at the range of different traditional art techniques. You’ll learn design skills using traditional art materials and skills. You will create 2D Drawing, Painting, Graphic Design, Illustration, Printmaking and 3D (Sculpture) and, again, build your confidence for progression to our Level 3 Programme. During this year of study you will learn new skills and build upon your existing creative abilities, you will learn to reflect upon your work in a professional and objective way in order to ensure progress. We give regular feedback, designed to help you to achieve your full potential. During the first term, workshops and skill building sessions will equip you with the skills necessary to create your own brief for your final major project; this is a body of work that shows your strengths and personal interests, reflecting your research, contextual design, presentation and, of course, your practical skills. Studying this vocational qualification enables you to explore and build a variety of creative skills whilst also working creatively within a pathway that challenges and excites you.
The standard entry requirements for this course are:
3 GCSE grade 4 or above (grade A*-C), including English and a creative subject studied at GCSE.
You’ll be invited to have a chat with our teachers and you’ll need to bring a portfolio of work with you (this can be digital).
Applicants who do not meet all the course entry requirements, may still be considered.
If not able to continue with their application to this course, an alternative course will be explored and further advice and guidance offered.
On this course, there are no formal exams.
You will be assessed on your coursework throughout the year.
Your final grade is based on your final major project, but we support you throughout the year to build you skills to achieve the grade you are aiming for.
We are a highly motivated and positive teaching team and believe that an open mind and a can do attitude is the best way for you to get the most out of your learning.
We work closely with our students and often learn from each other to embrace creativity, share new ideas and celebrate at the end of year with an exhibition of the fantastic work produced.
Our highly skilled and enthusiastic teachers will help you build confidence and vocational skills and will motivate you along the way.
We work with UK based artists and businesses on various projects throughout the course.
You are encouraged and supported to enter competitions and work with clients on industry-led project assignments, which help increase your future aspirations.
The course provides regular workshops with artists and businesses.
In the past year we have worked with:
We have also worked with tattoo artists, mural designers and the award winning BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art.
Our Arts & Design department is one of the best in the country.
Our passionate tutors have a wealth of experience and strong industry links.
Facilities include industry-standard software and equipment within specialist creative spaces.
Studying this vocational qualification enables you to explore and build a variety of creative skills whilst also working creatively within a pathway that challenges and excites you.
You can progress onto one of our Level 3 courses, which are equivalent to three A Levels and can help gain entry to university as well as alllowing you to progress into work.
Our team, along with our expert careers advisers will guide you throughout the course and help you to decide what is right for you.
You will need to buy some art supplies and materials, we’ll supply you with a list and advise how to source the best quality materials at the lowest prices.
“I wasn’t really confident with art before I started this course, but gradually I’ve learnt about the foundations and it’s really helped me figure out that art isn’t as complicated as I thought… it’s definitely doable with enough practice.“ Liam Armstrong
“Our students have gone on to greater things. Some have progressed to university while others have become professional artists. It’s great to know that we helped them to develop their skills so they could achieve their goals.” Steve Lyon-Bowes, Curriculum Leader
This course is free to those aged under 19 years old.
Most people aged 19 years and over can qualify for free or reduced price course fees and there are grants and bursaries you can apply for to help cover the costs of coming to college, depending on your circumstances.
If you already have a full level 3 qualification and are aged 19 years over, you can apply for an Advanced Learning Loan or pay the fee upfront in full and qualify for a 10% discount.
You can get more information at our enrolment events, by calling 0191 490 0300 or email us at [email protected]
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college. We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
To contact our dedicated Learning Support team email [email protected] or head to Live Chat
View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.
Enrolment Event
Monday 12 May 2025
HTQs Online Information Session
Wednesday 21 May 2025