Explore a wide range of skills, techniques and different media with this introductory into art and design. Develop visual and practical skills to help you progress onto further study or gain employment in the creative industry.


Meet our students Cameron Horner

Cameron Horner

While studying at Newbury College and University Centre Newbury, I gained the confidence to explore different subject areas until I found the right course to support my future career. I recently completed my Graphic Design HND, during which I have had the opportunity to work on live projects, gaining valuable experience while studying. More...

Graphic Design HND

Meet our students Ethan Thorne

Ethan Thorne

I chose Newbury College because it has a healthy environment in which I can enjoy creative freedom.

Art and Design

Meet our students James Lockhart

James Lockhart

My time at college has been really positive. I’ve been able to focus solely on one subject that I really enjoy, and I’m progressing onto university with an unconditional offer at the university of my choice.

Art and Design

Meet our students Thea Clarke

Thea Clarke

I would recommend Newbury College as I have had so much support. I have enjoyed developing my skills in spray painting and printmaking techniques.

Art and Design

Meet our students Willow Hammond-Ellaway

Willow Hammond-Ellaway

I chose to study at Newbury College because it was conveniently close. I also loved the course choices, such a huge range, it was very difficult for me to decide what would be best. I had a lot of support to help me choose what course would be best for my future. I have enjoyed the confidence that I have gained from my course and I am very thankful for everything the college has done for me.

Art and Design

  • Description

    Units covered may include the following:

    • Photography
    • Graphics
    • Drawing
    • Painting
    • 3D and sculpture
    • Textiles, fashion and print

    Students also complete a skills project which builds confidence and employability skills, as well as covering subjects such as equality and safeguarding.

  • Entry Requirements

    Five GCSE passes at grade 3 or above, preferably to include Maths and English, or equivalent vocational qualification at merit grade, and Functional Skills Maths and English, preferably at Level 1.

    Students are not expected to have previous experience in all areas of study, but are expected to be able to draw and have a good sense of colour. At interview students will be asked to show examples of art and design work they have produced. This may be a sketch book, a portfolio of pieces or digital photographs of work produced. It is often difficult to obtain art and design coursework for interviews that fall later in the academic year as schools and colleges usually have to keep work securely until all the exam results are published. We are therefore happy to look at digital images of work or an applicant may complete a drawing from direct observation that takes around 30 minutes to complete of one or more items around the home.

  • Qualification

    Level 2 Extended Certificate in Art and Design

  • Progression

    Level 3 Art and Design, an apprenticeship or employment.

  • Assessment

    Students are assessed through a combination of assignments, practical work, projects and controlled assessments set by the awarding body. Students will produce a portfolio of work which is assessed against the grading criteria for the units.

    Assignments set will have an agreed hand-in date that will need to be met in order to meet the awarding body guidelines. In addition to portfolio work, some units may also include externally marked assessment material, sat under controlled conditions.

  • Home Study

    Students can expect to have between one and four hours of homework each week. This may range from finding materials to researching artists, information or themes and images for an assignment.

  • Work Placement

    Students are expected to participate in a programme of work experience and record this experience in a log book. Speakers from the creative industries are invited in to talk to students about their roles and areas of employment. In addition to this students may visit one or more work places to see creative employment roles.

  • Fees and Additional Costs

    All students are asked to contribute £15 towards the College Subscription Fund and £100 towards creative materials per year. This includes general day to day tools and materials. Offsite visits to museums and galleries will also incur a separate cost. Financial support may be available.

Code Start Fees*
ARTL2 242501 September 2024 Fee Information

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* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..