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BTEC Art and Design
The BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Art and Design is a two-year course designed for creatively ambitious learners who want to specialise in expressive, hands-on visual art. Equivalent to two A Levels, this qualification offers a deep and practical exploration of traditional and contemporary art and design practices.
Why study National Diploma in Art and Design?
This course is perfect for students who enjoy working with physical materials and want to explore their creativity through sculpture, painting, drawing, installation, and mixed-media approaches. You will develop conceptual thinking, visual language, and technical confidence in both 2D and 3D formats. The creative industries is a growing sector, especially in this region. Whether you want to become a fine artist, designer, craftsperson, or architect, this pathway will prepare you for progression into higher education or creative employment.
What will I study?
You will complete 8 units in total: 6 mandatory units and 2 optional units.
Mandatory Units:
- Unit 1: Visual Recording and Communication – Build strong observational and expressive skills through drawing, painting, photography, and 3D studies.
- Unit 2: Critical and Contextual Studies in Art and Design – Explore the historical and cultural influences that shape art and design practices.
- Unit 3: The Creative Process – Learn how to generate, explore, and refine creative ideas.
- Unit 4: Materials, Techniques and Processes in Art and Design – Experiment with traditional and contemporary media across 2D and 3D disciplines.
- Unit 5: Developing an Art and Design Portfolio – Create a professional portfolio suitable for university or job applications.
- Unit 7: Developing and Realising Creative Intentions – Undertake a major self-directed project to demonstrate your specialism and personal voice.
Optional Units Include:
- Photographic Materials, Techniques and Processes
- Graphics Materials, Techniques and Processes
- Fine Art Materials, Techniques and Processes
- 3D Design Materials, Techniques and Processes
- Textiles Materials, Techniques and Processes
- Fashion Materials, Techniques and Processes
- Design Craft Materials, Techniques and Processes
Which exam board and how will I be assessed?
This course is accredited by Pearson Edexcel.
The BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Art and Design is assessed through a combination of internal and external assessments, designed to reflect real-world art and design practice. Three units are externally assessed by Pearson.
Where could it take me?
This diploma is excellent preparation for our art foundation course or higher education courses in fine art, sculpture, ceramics, architecture, 3D design, product design, set design, game design or animation. It also opens up pathways into creative apprenticeships or entry-level roles in the creative industries.
Subject combinations
Creative courses can be studied alongside any combination of courses. Most popular are A-level Graphics, Photography, Textiles, Media, Film and Performing Arts courses.
What support is available?
When you enrol, we will make sure that you are receiving all the support you need, such as extra time in your exams, help with written analysis/annotation or practical support from our two specialist art technicians. Studios are always available in your independent study time. If you are keen to pursue a creative future, you will receive help with choosing your progression route.
What extracurricular activities are available?
In recent years students have enjoyed reference gathering trips to Berlin, Morocco, Madrid, London, Liverpool and Manchester. Throughout the year and across the courses and disciplines there are opportunities to enter internal and external competitions and live briefs.
At the end of the second year, you also have the chance to present your highly creative and individual work in our summer exhibition.
