Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design

Applications open - Monday 2 November 2026

Applications close - Open all year

How to apply - Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide.

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Broadstairs College.

Application Limits - You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Do you have a natural, creative flare? Then consider turning your hobby into a career and study the world of art and design. Discover what you’re really capable of with our Level 2 Art and Design course and have the freedom to experiment with a wide range of materials, techniques and ideas. Whether you’re new to art and design or looking to grow your confidence, this course gives you the space to explore, create and improve. By the end of the year, you’ll have built a strong foundation and a portfolio of work that prepares you to progress onto a Level 3 course and continue your journey into the creative industries. This course is suitable for students who have achieved a 4/C grade in English and Maths. If you have not yet achieved this grade you will need to complete the course over two years. This provides you with additional time to achieve a Level 2 in English and/or Maths, with additional trips, activities, employer engagement opportunities.

Get your creativity flowing as you explore different materials, techniques and ways of working. Throughout the course you’ll experiment, test ideas and build confidence as you develop your creative skills across a range of projects. You’ll try out a variety of mediums, from drawing and painting to 3D work and digital design, giving you the chance to discover your strengths and interests. You’ll learn how to take an idea from a starting point through to a finished piece, building your understanding of the creative process along the way. Work on exciting projects and live briefs, developing your ability to think creatively, solve problems and communicate your ideas visually. You’ll also begin using digital tools and software, giving you a taste of how the industry works. You will develop skills in: • Drawing, painting and visual recording • 2D and 3D art and design techniques • Print making and textiles • Analogue and digital photography • Creative problem solving • Using digital tools, including Adobe software • Understanding the creative process and developing ideas Gain real insight into the industry through mentorship, hands-on experience and professional exposure. Throughout the course, you’ll build a portfolio that shows your progress, creativity and potential, helping you take the next step onto a Level 3 course.

You’ll build a portfolio of your work throughout the course, developing your skills across practical projects and creative assignments. Each project helps you experiment, improve and grow in confidence. At the end of the course, you’ll complete a Final Major Project. You’ll bring together everything you’ve learned to create a final piece that showcases the artistic style you’ve developed throughout the year. This is a highly supportive course, designed to guide your progress with clear, practical advice so you can continue building your skills and confidence.

This course is suitable for students who have achieved a 4/C grade in English and Maths. If you have not yet achieved this grade you will need to complete the course over two years. This provides you with additional time to achieve a Level 2 in English and/or Maths, with additional trips, activities, employer engagement opportunities. You will also be asked to show some examples of your work when you apply. This could include drawings, sketches, paintings or photography that demonstrates your creativity and potential.

This course is designed to prepare you for your next step. After completing Level 2, you can progress onto a Level 3 course in Art and Design or a specialist creative subject, where you’ll develop more advanced skills and begin shaping your career direction. You could also go on to explore specialisms in areas such as: • Fine Art • Graphic Design • Illustration • Photography • 3D Design • Digital media You may also decide to step straight into an entry-level job or freelance in the creative sector. Entry-level roles could include studio assistant, photographer or junior designer.