The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is designed to help students progress from Level 3 study into higher education or professional work in the creative industries. It provides a dynamic, exploratory environment where you can experiment with new techniques, materials, and ideas while developing your creative confidence and artistic identity.
Course Overview
Through collaborative, client-led, and independent projects, you’ll refine your portfolio and deepen your understanding of art, design, and visual communication. This course is ideal for students who want to strengthen their creative thinking, expand their portfolio, and define a clear pathway into university or employment.
What You'll Learn
- Independent project management and effective time management skills
- Exploratory drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media techniques
- Contextual research, creative analysis, and critical reflection
- Creating socially engaged artwork with community or peer groups
- Responding to client-style briefs and developing solutions to creative challenges
- Decision-making and problem-solving in contemporary creative practice
You’ll also focus on developing a professional portfolio that showcases your skills, ideas, and creative growth. Through guidance from tutors and feedback from peers, you’ll prepare for university applications or entry into the creative industries with a clear, confident presentation of your work.
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
- Spacious, open-plan art studios with dedicated breakout areas designed for large-scale installations, experimentation, and group collaboration
- Full access to industry-standard materials and tools for printmaking, 2D and 3D construction, sculpture, and digital creative processes
- Professional cameras, editing suites, and digital media resources that allow students to explore photography, film, and mixed-media projects
- Opportunities to use BCE’s fully equipped media suite and theatre space for performance art, video installations, and interdisciplinary projects
- Collaborative access to Blackhorse Workshop and involvement in Build Hollywood billboard projects, providing real-world creative experience and industry exposure
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- Project-based studio practice
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
This course leads to a UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design, equivalent to up to 112 UCAS tariff points for a Distinction grade. It provides the ideal bridge between Level 3 study and higher education or entry into the creative industries.
ENTRY CRITERIA
- Completion of a Level 3 qualification (e.g. UAL Extended Diploma or A-Levels)
- A portfolio of artwork demonstrating creative potential, technical skill, and commitment
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
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
Take the next step in your creative journey with BCE’s Art Foundation. An open, challenging and collaborative course designed to refine your artistic practice
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! The Art Foundation course is free for students under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP. There are no tuition fees, and all essential materials, studio access and software use are included.
What will I actually learn on the course?
You’ll learn how to work more independently as an artist or designer while developing your creative process, voice and confidence. The course is divided into three core phases:
- Me – You’ll focus on personal creative identity, experimenting with different media, and developing a deeper understanding of what drives your work. This includes sketchbook studies, 2D and 3D experimentation, and artist research.
- You – In this stage, you’ll work to client or community-led briefs. You’ll develop outcomes for real or simulated audiences, build professional skills like pitching and presenting, and explore how art and design fit into wider social and commercial contexts.
- Us – This final phase is the Final Major Project. You’ll take full creative control of a self-initiated piece of work — combining your personal interests with the practical and critical skills you’ve developed. You’ll manage your own time, materials and goals, producing a portfolio-quality piece that reflects your progression path.
Throughout all stages, you’ll be supported through tutorials, workshops, peer critique and research sessions.
What kind of projects will I work on?
Projects are varied and student-driven. You might produce installation work, zines, short films, experimental sculptures, fashion pieces or community-based visual campaigns. You’ll take part in collaborative workshops with visiting practitioners, respond to real-world briefs, and explore multiple creative disciplines to help shape your future direction.
What kind of careers or pathways can this course lead to?
Most students use the Foundation year to prepare for:
- University courses in Fine Art, Illustration, Animation, Design, Fashion, Architecture or Creative Media
- Foundation degrees, apprenticeships or internships in the creative industries
- Freelance careers as artists, designers or visual communicators
The course helps clarify your direction and refine the portfolio needed to take that next step.
How is this course connected to the creative industries?
The course structure mirrors real creative workflows — including deadlines, pitching, feedback and client-based challenges. You’ll visit exhibitions, work with creative mentors, and collaborate with institutions like Build Hollywood and Blackhorse Workshop. Through external project spaces and guest artist workshops, students gain exposure to real-life creative practice and networks.
What kind of facilities and materials will I use?
You’ll work in open-plan art studios with access to 2D, 3D and digital resources. This includes paint, sculpture materials, printmaking tools, cameras, software (Adobe Creative Suite), and access to greenscreen and media studios. All sketchbooks and key materials are provided for free to support your exploration.
How does the course support wellbeing and personal growth?
The Foundation course is designed with identity, expression and self-discovery at its core. Students are supported with 1:1 tutorials, group critique, and wellbeing sessions embedded into the curriculum. There is a strong focus on building creative resilience, confidence, and emotional expression — within a safe and inclusive studio culture.
What’s the timetable like?
The course runs over 3 days per week, including:
- Studio practice and personal project time
- Group tutorials, research workshops and critiques
- Enrichment, exhibition visits and independent study
- Optional English and Maths resits if required
What are the entry requirements?
- Completion of a relevant Level 3 qualification (e.g. Extended Diploma, A-Levels or equivalent)
- A portfolio of work that shows curiosity, risk-taking, and creative thought
- You must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
What if I’m not sure what kind of artist I want to be?
That’s exactly what the Foundation course is for. You’ll try out multiple disciplines, experiment with new techniques, and reflect deeply on your creative direction. By the end of the year, you’ll have a much stronger understanding of where you want to take your work — and the portfolio to help get you there.