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Art & Design

In this course, students will explore a variety of art disciplines, such as 2D and 3D design, photography, drawing and painting, graphic design, printmaking, and ceramics. In this specialism you will learn about different types of photographers, lighting techniques, flash studio lighting, on location, digital imaging and editing. You will also have access to our fully equipped studio and darkroom, where you will be shown how to experiment with a range of photographic and printing techniques. You will benefit from having access to state-of-the-art equipment including DSLR cameras, film cameras and lenses. You will have access to professional standard digital imaging and editing software including Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and Premiere Pro. Our well-equipped studio and expert technical support team will help you develop your skills. Plus, you’ll gain hands-on experience in the darkroom, processing and printing 35mm film, as well as experimenting with a range of other techniques. This course is an ideal introduction to becoming a creative and employable photographer.

  • Entry requirements

    4 x GCSEs grade 3 (grade D) or above, including Art and (preferably) both English and maths, or a relevant Level 1 qualification. If you have evidence of previous artwork/photography, and GCSE coursework, this will be looked at during the interview.

  • Who is the course for?

    The Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design is designed to provide students who want to take their enjoyment of Art and Design onto a level which allows them to become more focused on Photography for a portion of their studies. The course will introduce you to a broad range of skills and techniques, building your skills and knowledge and allowing you to explore, develop and test your creativity.

  • Study methods

    The Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design is designed to provide students who want to take their enjoyment of Art and Design onto a level which allows you to become more focused in a particular discipline. You will focus on Photography for a portion of your studies. There are opportunities to work on live projects (with real clients), the chance to exhibit your work, and visit galleries or museums to inspire your work.

  • How is the course assessed?

    You will complete a number of units which are assessed during the year and show how you have developed a range of skills. All mandatory units must be passed to progress on the course. Your Final Major Project, a more independent project (graded Pass, Merit or Distinction), allows you to show how what you have learned can be used to develop a final piece of coursework that showcases your skills and will provide you with your final grade for the course.

  • More information

    Students will need to have some art materials at home, such as drawing and colouring pencils, fine line pens, paints and brushes to complete your sketchbook homework. If you are choosing photography as a specialism it is recommended that you have access to a Digital SLR but our staff can advise once the course has started. We also have an array of cameras that students can borrow for a short term loan. There may be some additional costs for travel and relevant museum/exhibition visits during this course. Please bring the usual writing materials and drawing pencils, an eraser and a sharpener to all lessons.

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    You can work in a variety of entry-level roles within the art & design industries. Many students progress to Level 3 courses and often Higher Education before going into the industry in more advanced roles.

  • Where Next – Further Studies

    Successful students can progress to a two-year Level 3 course in either Art and Design, or Architecture at Harrow College. Some students may progress to specialist Level 3 courses in Graphic Design, Fashion, Games Design or Creative Media Production at Uxbridge College.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

Course starting Sep 2025

Starts 2 September 2025

Duration 1 Year(s)

Location Harrow Weald Campus

Days/Time Monday-Friday
09:00 - 17:00