Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

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Art and Design

Art and Design

Art and Design

Close up of painting with artist in background.

UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design | UAL Level 4 Consolidating Practice Unit

For creative, motivated learners serious about a career in art or design, this course brings together talented, like-minded individuals in an environment designed to push skills and spark ideas. Learners with a strong portfolio and a genuine passion for their craft are encouraged to apply.

AREAS:
ID: 1446

Is this course right for me?

This course builds on learners’ existing skills, challenging them with new ideas and projects that develop critical independence. It equips learners with the understanding and confidence needed to progress to Higher Education or move into a creative career.

The course emphasises hands-on, experimental learning, encouraging students to explore, take risks, and learn through making. By embracing unexpected outcomes and refining practical skills, learners gain insight into common principles and distinctive characteristics of different art and design disciplines.

  • Level 3 Art/Design at grade C or above (either A-level or vocational qualification)
  • Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh
  • A portfolio/examples of work will be required for this course
  • Each application is considered on individual merit
  • Entry is subject to attending a course meeting or informal interview
If you have gained your qualifications outside of the UK we will use ECCTIS to check their equivalence to UK qualifications. Please upload proof of your qualifications as part of the application process.
  • Level 3 Art/Design at grade C or above (either A-level or vocational qualification)
  • Successful decision from progression board meeting

Units to be studied to include:

  • Exploratory Stage – investigation of the fundamentals of visual language, through an intensive examination of drawing, colour and a range of basic 2D and 3D visual languages and processes
  • Pathway Stage –  learners can specialise in a range of disciplines for example, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Fashion/Textiles, 3D
  • Confirmatory Stage – work on a major personal project based on your chosen area of specialisation leading to an individual exhibition at the end of the year

Skills learnt:

  • Understanding and application of the creative process
  • Creative skills to a high level in favourited specialist area
  • Presentation techniques
  • Time management and self initiated study and motivation

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:

  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language

Below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College.

Workbased, progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty – you will study Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications.

Jobs Growth Wales (JGW+) programme – will be timetabled into literacy and numeracy sessions. To discuss the opportunity of attending a GCSE resit programme, in addition to their JGW+ timetable, please contact skills@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

Life Skills Academy programmes – you will have opportunities to upskill in English and Maths through Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) / Century or attending Essential Skills classes.

All other courses and those who have progressed through the internal progression route:

Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills

A one year GCSE Resit Programme in GCSE Mathematics Intermediate Tier (Welsh or English medium) / GCSE English Language

A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s – The priority of this programme (Foundation Maths for Mathematics pathway) is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression onto the one-year, intermediate tier resit programme.

A one year pre-GCSE upskilling course in mathematics – The priority of this programme is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression to the Foundation Maths programme.

Learners may have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Continuous assessment during the course
  • Portfolio of evidence
  • Completion of a final major project

This course has an excellent reputation of preparing learners for study in Higher Education throughout the UK. Many students choose to progress on to degree courses and can progress into professional positions in all areas of Art and Design, including: Fine Art, Graphic Design, Media, 3D Design and Crafts, Fashion/Textiles and Teaching.

If you are thinking about studying at degree level following this course please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.

  • Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
  • It would be beneficial, but not essential, to bring your own device/laptop to support your studies
  • Art materials - you will be told about any specific items during or before you start the course
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

  • No tuition fee
  • You will need to pay a £70 art workshop fee each year before you start the course
  • You can rent a locker for £10 per year this will be refunded if the locker remains undamaged and keys are returned
  • There may be trips/expeditions required or optional as part of this course
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

Additional information

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Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.

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Last updated: 24/03/2026
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
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