Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design
| Mode of study | Vocational Full-time |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Campus | English Bridge Campus |
| Start date | 1 September 2025 |
| Course code | FLR3ANE (2527) |
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Who is it for?
Since 1855, Shrewsbury School of Art has established an enviable reputation. To continue this proud tradition, we are currently seeking new artists and designers, passionate about reaching their full potential. The programme provides a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills and understanding required for success in higher education, and ultimately the creative industries. Most students choose to extend their studies at renowned ‘first-choice’ Universities, choosing from a wide range of Degree courses related to Art & Design.
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Entry Requirements
A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, preferably including English Language and an art subject, or Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design at Merit level, and a portfolio of art and design work.
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What does the course involve?
You will be taught by artists and designers in an art school environment and have opportunities to specialise and be encouraged to cross creative boundaries. The first year of the course has opportunities for students to develop skills and explore new disciplines. The second year focuses more on you developing specialist skills in a chosen specialist area.
Divided into 18 different projects, you will study a diverse range of specialisms, including printmaking, drawing, painting, 3D design, textiles, photography, illustration, ceramics, and contextual studies.
You will be taught by artists and designers in an art school context and have opportunities to specialise and be encouraged to cross creative boundaries. The first year of the course has opportunities for students to develop skills and explore new disciplines. The second year focuses more on you developing specialist skills in a chosen area.
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How is the course assessed?
You will be required to complete 18 units of coursework over two years which are equally weighted and graded at the end of each assignment, subject to internal and external moderation processes. Summative assessment at the end of the course is verified by an external examiner, assignments, or creating assessed visual work.
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How much does it cost?
Students have to provide their own materials. Please note, Art & Design materials are expensive and there will be on going costs throughout the year. A contribution towards educational visits may also be requested.
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Additional Notes
Students have progressed onto courses at prestigious institutions such as Central St Martins, London College of Fashion, Manchester Metropolitan University and Nottingham Trent University. Alternatively, you could go into full-time employment in the fashion or photography industry or other related creative industry sectors.
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Further Information
You will also have visits to appropriate galleries and fashion shows.
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What do I do next?
You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study such as A Levels via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 653111 or email admissions@scg.ac.uk
Samantha Shoulder
HNC in Fashion and Textiles
The course has given me great opportunities to explore different fashion and textile techniques with support from experienced tutors. It has helped me advance both my skills and confidence in current industry standards.
Rhianne Stubbs
A Level Fine Art (Biology and English Literature)
Previous Institution: Priory School
Art at Shrewsbury Colleges Group is so expansive, it’s not just all about portraiture. Your ideas can be endless and the teachers allow you to explore all forms. I really enjoy A Level Art, it’s something I do at College and a hobby for me at home.
Megan Butler
A Level Fine Art (Graphic Communication, Spanish)
Previous Institution: Bishop's Castle Community College
The A Level course is so much more in-depth than GCSE – which is great. I will be taking a gap year and travelling, then I would like to explore Interior Design as a career. My final pieces focused on architecture and windows using stencils and digital art. Digital art is something that I really appreciated learning about.
Amy Smith
I have learnt many new techniques whilst on the printmaking course with Jay. We have been able to explore individual ideas with just the right amount of support and guidance in a relaxed and creative environment. I am excited to continue printing at home, having discovered a process I love.
Georgia Hudson
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design
Previous school: Priory School
Art is the subject that I felt most passionate about and I wanted to study it as a vocational course because I felt A Levels were not for me. I work on art whenever I can, at College and at home. I especially love working with charcoal and I was given the freedom to use this medium often.
Abigail Warham
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography
Previous school: Llanfylin High School
My Mum is an Illustrator and my love of photography began when taking photos for her. This course is brilliant with amazing equipment and the freedom to be creative. The College is also in a great location– being so close to town is helpful for all our photo shoots. We get the opportunity to go on loads of gallery trips, which are so educational and inspirational. My work has actually been in Wolverhampton Gallery after a teacher put it forward. I will be going to UWE Bristol to study Photography in 2020, but next year I will be travelling around India with my camera. I would love to eventually work in documentary or fashion photography.
Stella Wharton
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design
Previous school: Bishop's Castle Community College
I was originally applying for A Levels but thought it would be better to just do a solely Art focused course. I love the range of topics we cover in Level 3, we approach art in so many different ways – it broadens our knowledge. It is a friendly environment to work in and the teachers are open-minded and help with inspiration and developing your ideas. I am going to the University of Brighton to study 3D Design & Craft and would eventually like to work in 3D design and education.
Megan Butler
A Level Fine Art (Graphic Communication, Spanish)
Previous Institution: Bishop's Castle Community College
The A Level course is so much more in-depth than GCSE – which is great. I will be taking a gap year and travelling, then I would like to explore Interior Design as a career. My final pieces focused on architecture and windows using stencils and digital art. Digital art is something that I really appreciated learning about.
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