The Art & Design course at Big Creative Academy is an immersive Level 3 programme designed to surround you with creativity, experimentation, and hands-on practice. You’ll explore fine art, illustration, and multi-dimensional design — from 2D and 3D to emerging 4D work — developing a diverse skillset across both traditional and digital mediums.
Course Overview
Guided by experienced artists and practitioners, you’ll experiment with materials, techniques, and concepts that push your creative boundaries. With inspiration drawn from London’s vibrant gallery and design scene, you’ll refine your personal style, build a strong professional portfolio, and discover exciting pathways into the art and design industries.
What You'll Learn
- Drawing, painting, illustration, and printmaking
- 2D, 3D, and 4D visual design and creative processes
- Sculpture, mixed media, and installation art
- Typography, layout, and concept development
- Sketchbook development and artist research
- Contextual studies and visual storytelling
You’ll also take on live client projects and employer-led briefs, gaining valuable real-world experience that helps you apply your creative skills professionally. By the end of the course, you’ll have developed a polished portfolio and learned how to present and promote your work effectively to universities, employers, or clients.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5YzKJ8Mvm0
COURSE VIDEO & CAREER PATHS
Illustrator or Fine Artist
Tattooist or BODY ARTIST
Art Director
Architect or Set Designer
Gallery Assistant or Curator
University Music Production
Facilities
- Expansive, purpose-built art studios at our Clifton Avenue Campus, offering a vibrant and inspiring space for experimentation, collaboration, and the development of your personal creative practice
- Full access to a comprehensive range of professional printmaking tools, lightboxes, scanners, and industry-standard digital editing software to enhance both traditional and modern art production
- Complimentary sketchbooks, premium-quality materials, and specialist art supplies provided to ensure you can fully realise your artistic ideas without limitation
- Frequent gallery visits, in-depth workshops, and mentoring sessions with guest artists, plus opportunities to collaborate on projects that connect you to London’s thriving creative and cultural scene
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- Art & design sessions and project work
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
This course leads to a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication. A Distinction grade is worth up to 168 UCAS tariff points, giving you a strong foundation for progression to university or a professional career in the creative industries.
ENTRY CRITERIA
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- A strong interest in art, design, or visual creativity
Big Creative Academy has been officially rated Outstanding by OFSTED, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence. Inspectors highlighted the dedication and passion of staff, the use of innovative and engaging teaching methods, and a holistic approach to student development that supports both academic and personal growth.
Student Work
The images highlight our students’ creativity and skill, featuring a mix of paintings, digital designs, and mixed-media pieces that showcase their artistic growth and imagination.
Alumni Stories
“During my time at BCE, I exhibited my work in two national art shows, which gave me valuable exposure and confidence as an artist. The experience helped me develop my own creative voice and build a strong portfolio, leading to my progression to the Chelsea School of Art, where I’m now studying Fine Art and continuing to refine my practice.”
Jack, former Art and Design student
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Create your future through visual storytelling, experimentation and design with Art & Design at BCE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! This course is fully funded for students under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP. All studio access, materials like sketchbooks and drawing tools, and trips to galleries or exhibitions are included at no cost.
What will I actually learn on the course?
This course is about unlocking your creativity and growing your identity as a visual artist or designer. You’ll explore many techniques and mediums, including:
- Drawing and illustration — from technical studies to expressive sketching
- Painting, printmaking, collage and mixed media experimentation
- 3D sculpture and installation using traditional and found materials
- 4D and time-based practices (including film and performance-based artwork)
- Typography, zines, layout and poster design
- Artist research, critical thinking and personal response
- Digital editing and portfolio development using Photoshop and other software
- Independent projects that reflect your interests, values, and visual identity
- Final Major Project where you take full creative control and exhibit your work
What kind of projects will I work on?
Projects vary from observational drawing and identity work to experimental sculpture, zine creation, collaborative exhibitions and gallery-inspired responses. You’ll take on live briefs and open-ended creative challenges that push your thinking and creative risk-taking. Each project is structured around a cycle of research, experimentation, reflection and presentation — helping you grow as a well-rounded creative.
What kind of careers or pathways could this lead to?
This course prepares you for a wide range of creative careers or further study in areas such as:
- Fine Art or Illustration
- Visual Merchandising or Art Direction
- Tattooing or Printmaking
- Interior or Set Design
- Gallery and Exhibition Management
- Foundation courses or degrees in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Architecture or Visual Communication
How is this course linked to the creative industries?
The course is modelled around the life of a working artist — with creative freedom, critique culture and personal project development at its core. You’ll engage with employer briefs, showcase your work publicly, and build a professional portfolio that’s ready for uni or freelance opportunities. You’ll also have opportunities to take part in gallery visits, meet guest artists, and learn how to document and present your process effectively.
What kind of facilities and equipment will I use?
You’ll work in BCE’s dedicated art studios at Clifton Avenue, using tools and materials for drawing, painting, sculpture, printing and digital editing. You’ll be given sketchbooks and resources at no cost, and have access to lightboxes, projectors, scanners and Adobe software in our Mac suites.
How does the course support wellbeing and personal growth?
This course is designed to help you find your voice — not just as an artist, but as a person. You’ll get regular 1:1 tutorials, weekly wellbeing and career sessions, and creative space to explore your identity and expression. Staff create a supportive, inclusive environment where different backgrounds and stories are reflected and respected.
What’s the timetable like?
You’ll study 3 days per week including:
- Studio sessions, group critiques and independent work
- Skills workshops, personal projects and contextual studies
- English or Maths resits if needed
- Wellbeing, enrichment, and careers activities
What are the entry requirements?
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- You don’t need to be a technical expert — just have curiosity, imagination and a passion for making visual work
What if I’m still developing my artistic style?
That’s exactly what this course is for. Through projects, experimentation and personal reflection, you’ll explore lots of creative routes and ideas. By the end of the course, you’ll have a clearer voice and a unique portfolio that reflects your artistic journey.