Exploring the Creatives is a welcoming and accessible course for young people who want to build confidence, reignite their creativity, and explore a future in the arts. This full-year programme focuses on personal and social development alongside creative tasters in music, art, media, animation, and performance.
Course Overview
Designed for learners working at Entry Level 3 or Level 1, the course is ideal for those who may not yet meet the entry requirements for other vocational routes but are passionate about the arts. With plenty of 1:1 support, enrichment activities, and hands-on projects, it’s the perfect foundation for progressing onto a Level 1 or Level 2 course — or simply reconnecting with education in a supportive, creative space.
What You'll Learn
- Personal and social development skills
- Enterprise and creative business awareness
- Confidence and communication-building through arts
- Art and design using papier-mâché, clay, painting, and animation
- Podcasting, soundscape, and digital storytelling
- Creative software like Logic Pro and animation tools
- How to manage projects from design to sale (enterprise units)
Each week, you’ll take part in creative tasters across a range of artistic disciplines — from music and media to visual arts and performance. These sessions are designed to help you explore new skills, discover what you enjoy most, and build creative confidence in a supportive, hands-on environment.
Facilities
- Access to a dedicated art studio and specialist creative rooms equipped for a wide range of projects, from drawing and painting to mixed media and sculpture.
- Use of the Dolby Atmos suite for professional-standard podcasting, sound design, and creative audio production, helping you explore storytelling through sound.
- Access to high-quality equipment for clay animation, glass painting, digital art, and other hands-on creative processes that let you experiment and develop new skills.
- Regular sessions with guest speakers, visiting artists, and industry professionals who share their experiences, demonstrate techniques, and inspire fresh ideas for your own work.
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- Creative workshops and project sessions
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
- GCSE English and Maths resits (if required)
This course leads to an Entry Level 3 or Level 1 qualification in Personal and Social Development, helping you build confidence and key skills. With at least 85% attendance and successful completion, you can progress onto BCT Level 1 or Level 2 courses to continue your creative and personal development.
ENTRY CRITERIA
- Working at Entry Level 3 or above (assessed at interview)
- English and Maths qualifications at Entry Level 2 or higher
- A clear interest in the arts and creativity
- 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.
Your Journey to BCE
APPLY
October 2026 – 30 June 2027
Submit your application and support it with examples of your creative work or a self tape telling us why you would like to study at BCE; OR Alternatively, you can request for an informal interview with a curriculum manager.
ATTEND OPEN EVENING
October 2026 – April 2027
Come and experience BCE for yourself. We hold seven Open Evenings throughout the year, giving you the opportunity to explore our facilities, meet tutors, find out more about our courses and ask questions.
RECEIVE YOUR OFFER
OFFICIAL OFFER EMAIL
If you’re successful, you’ll receive an official offer by email, followed by your BCE Welcome Pack in the post.
Winter Workshops & Freshers’ Fair
Start getting involved before you enrol! Take part in a creative workshop, meet industry professionals and university representatives, and enjoy an afternoon of games, food and music.
Parent Information Evening
Bring your parent or carer along to get to know BCE better. Hear from our alumni, see our students in action through live showcases, and learn more about the opportunities and support available at BCE.
Summer Workshops & Freshers’ Fair
Reconnect with BCE before enrolment through another programme of creative workshops and Freshers’ Fair activities. Meet other future students and get ready for your next step.
FINAL STEP: ENROL AT BCE
FROM 19TH AUGUST 2027
It’s time to officially become a BCE student! Complete your enrolment and secure your place on your chosen course.
Your creative journey starts here.
Student Work
BCE Media Showcase 2024/25 — an end-of-year exhibition celebrating the creative and technical work produced by Big Creative Education media students showcasing industry-aligned projects developed throughout the academic year and highlighting student progression, professional practice, and emerging creative talent.
Alumni Stories
“I studied Media at Big Creative, where I built a strong foundation in production and learned the importance of working fast and meeting deadlines. I’m now a social media video editor and presenter for SCREENSHOT MEDIA. One of my strongest memories from BCE is staying late to use the school computers to edit my projects, since at the time I didn’t have one and was editing everything on my phone.”
Alin Puscus – Former BCE Media Learner
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Take your first creative step in a supportive environment with Exploring the Creatives at BCT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! This course is completely free for students under 25 with an EHCP. All materials, art supplies, and access to facilities are provided at no cost. There are no hidden fees.
What will I actually learn on the course?
This is a foundation-style programme that focuses on building confidence, creativity, and routine. You’ll explore a range of topics including:
- Personal & Social Development – Learn about communication, teamwork, independent living, assertiveness, and decision making.
- Creative Practice – Try tasters in music production, media, animation, podcasting, soundscapes, and 2D/3D art.
- Enterprise Skills – Learn how to turn creative ideas into simple products and plan how to design, make, and potentially sell them.
- English & Maths Support – You’ll study at the level that’s right for you, with support built in across the week.
- Digital Skills – Use Google Classroom and digital tools to complete and present your work.
What kind of creative projects will I do?
You’ll create and exhibit work through projects like glass painting, papier-mâché models, claymation, and stop-frame animation. You’ll record podcasts using the Dolby Atmos suite, design soundscapes, and build small enterprise projects where you make and sell your own art-based product. Projects are adjusted depending on student interests and confidence levels, so everyone finds their creative spark.
Is this course linked to the creative industries?
Yes, but in an introductory way. You’ll learn how different art forms work and how they’re used in industry. You’ll visit theatres, gaming conventions, museums, galleries, and other cultural spaces. You’ll also meet guest artists and creatives like musicians and designers who’ll share their journeys and tips. It’s designed to give you exposure and inspire your next step.
What kind of careers or courses can this lead to?
This is a progression course, meaning it’s designed to help you build confidence and gain the qualifications needed to apply for a Level 1 or Level 2 course at BCT. Once you’ve completed this course and built up attendance and skills, you could specialise in art, music, fashion, games, or media. It’s a supportive first step toward a creative career.