This focused and intensive one year course is for those with a real enthusiasm for Art and Design. The course builds on the work and units undertaken on the level 3 (90 Credit) Diploma course (Year 1). The Extended Diploma provides you with the opportunity to study a specialist pathway in greater depth; this could be in fashion, textiles, graphics, illustration, fine art or three dimensional design. Initially, you will undertake projects to develop and extend your understanding of design methodologies, this will include interpreting briefs, researching and generating ideas, reviewing and modifying ideas as well as realising and evaluating final outcomes. You will also participate in a Contextual Studies programme to help strengthen your theoretical understanding of Art and Design. In the 2nd and 3rd term you will experiment with different materials, techniques and processes. You will then select a pathway to specialise in and undertake a series of projects, mapped against Level 3 specialist units that will be connected to your area of interest and career progression. In your final term you will demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have attained within your chosen specialist pathway in a Final Major Project and exhibit this in an End of Year Show. The Extended Diploma qualification is the vocational equivalent of three A-levels at grade C or above, and through building a comprehensive Art and Design portfolio will facilitate your progression onto a wide range of higher education art or design courses or into employment.

The Extended Diploma qualification facilitates progression onto specialist art or design courses at Higher Education institutions.