Course - Fine Art (Post-Foundation): Higher National Certificate BTEC
Entry requirementsWhat background and qualifications do you need to join? You will need to have a substantial portfolio of work which you will be asked to bring to interview. The portfolio should include either painting or 3D sculpture; or mixed media or printmaking. You will also need to bring any sketchbooks and a selection of life drawings or drawings from nature. Applicants will normally be expected to have successfully completed a Foundation Course in Art & Design or have equivalent proven experience. You also need good levels of writing skills in English and you will be asked to bring along any recent essays or other writings. (Additional learning support in written or oral English may be available.)
Academic titleFine Art (Post-Foundation): Higher National Certificate BTEC
Course descriptionCourse Description
The course is a higher level than Foundation is equivalent to the first year of an art school degree and runs 3 days per week for 34 weeks. It is an intensive and exciting year in which you are supported and guided through a structured pathway to develop your own ideas and artwork. We work with drawing, painting, sculpture, video and printmaking. High tutor - student ratio, own workspaces, 2 exhibitions per year. The majority of students progress to Degree courses, some to postgraduate or HND.
What does the course lead to?
Successful completion of the course can lead to an application to Fine Art degree study or into employment opportunities as technicians, studio artists or gallery assistants.
Over the last few years students have progressed to all the London art schools including the Slade, Goldsmiths, Chelsea, Central St. Martins, Camberwell, University of East London, Middlesex University, Guildhall University, Kingston University and Wimbledon College of Art, along with other prestigious colleges within the U.K.
What does the course involve?
The Btec HNC specialises in Fine Art and enables students to pursue their ideas in video, sculpture, painting, drawing and printmaking. Underpinning the course will be units in Contextual Studies and Professional Practice. Emphasis throughout will be on acquiring and developing creative and technical skills through research and studio projects.
There will be an opportunity to show work in two exhibitions during the course.
What are the facilities and equipment like?
College Services
Skills Centres, with plenty of visual research material, including books, slides, journals, CD ROMS and Internet access are available for your use. Trained staff are able to help you with careers and educational guidance (including help with applications to university). Additional help with English and Maths is available if you need extra tuition in these subjects and a counselling service is provided for students needing personal support. We have a day nursery on site at Wornington for 2-5 year-olds, and reserved places at a nursery close to Hortensia Road. Help with childcare costs may also be available through the Learner Support Fund.
How much should I study outside class?
You will need to carry out independent research at home and some written work is required. There will be assessments each term and your grades will be discussed with you. Some units may be externally assessed. You will have a personal tutor who will offer advice, guidance and feedback and steer you through the processes of applying to HE or setting up your own studio.
What books and equipment do I need?
You will need to supply your own art materials and some equipment, and meet most of the costs of your exhibition.