Creative Arts
Art and Design BTEC National Diploma Level 3
Key Facts
Qualification Aim
Art and Design BTEC National Diploma Level 3
Entry Requirements
4 GCSEs at grade A to C or equivalent including an Art / Design subject
Start Date
September 2010
Course Overview
This diverse 2 year course is suitable for students seeking a career in art and design who wish to improve their skills and confirm their specialist direction. There is also a possibility of taking the BTEC National Award or Certificate over 1 year, which may suit mature students or those with particularly good prior knowledge or visual arts experience.
During the course you will be set a series of assignment briefs that will encourage you to explore a range of media, themes and approaches and work within the ethos of professional practice. You will experiment and explore ideas and concepts in conventional and unconventional ways, and learn how to present your work to different audiences.
As part of the course you will receive individual guidance and advice to help you progress and fulfil your potential. During tutorials you will be shown how to create a career plan, prepare supporting documentation about yourself and your skills and present a portfolio of art and design work for progression to HE or into employment.
Course Structure
The course covers units in:
- Fine Art, Drawing and Painting
- Printmaking and Sculpture
- Graphics and Illustration
- Graphic Media Words and Images
- Graphic Design and Image making
- Mixed Media and experimental Image Making
- Surface Design
- Fashion and Clothing
- Surface Pattern
- Pattern Repeat and Printed textiles
- Photography
- Media
- Experimental Imagery
- 3D Design
- History of Art and Design and Contextual Studies
- Design Methods
- Personal and Professional Development
- Application, Exploration and Realisation in Art and Design
- Essential Skills
There will be Gallery visits and trips to locations for Art & Design study and practice.
Qualification Aims
National Diploma in Art and Design (equivalent to 3 A Levels)
*AS Photography may also be offered to students who demonstrate the ability to cope with the demands of this additional qualification.
Assessments/Examinations
Continuous assessments and assignments leading to a Final Major Project and exhibition.
Cost / Equipment
Students over 19 may be required to pay tuition fees. Registration Fees for students aged 19 or ovewill be approx £130
Students will also need a basic art kit, some consumables, photocopying costs and College trips. Total Cost around £70-£100.
Help with essential equipment costs may be available to students who experience financial difficulties.
If you need help call the Student Services Administrator on 01843 605040 ext 5510 to make an appointment with our welfare officer.
Entry Requirements
Mature students without the formal entry requirements are encouraged to apply as experience and demonstration of commitment will be considered.
You will be called in for an interview to which you should bring a portfolio of visual studies (these should be your own art/design pieces and/or craft work)
Start Date
How to Apply
If you wish to apply for any of our courses, please complete and return an application form.
If you have any problems completing the form or have any questions regarding the application process, please contact our Student Admissions team on 01843 605049, or email student_admissions@thanet.ac.uk.




